War With Iran Now In Its Third Day
The joint U.S.-Israeli operation against Iran has entered day three. The Pentagon has now shared some new details in its first formal press briefing on the conflict since it began over the weekend.
Readers can catch up on the events of the first day of the war with our initial rolling coverage here, and the important events from day two here.
What the United States has dubbed Operation Epic Fury “was highly classified, so that at H-Hour [the start of the operation], the enemy would see one thing, speed, surprise, and violence of action,” Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff U.S. Air Force Gen. Dan “Razin” Caine said at this morning’s press conference at the Pentagon. “The first movers were CYBERCOM [U.S. Cyber Command] and USSPACECOM [U.S. Space Command], layering non-kinetic effects, disrupting and degrading and blinding Iran’s ability to see, communicate, and respond.”
“At H-Hour, the beginning of major combat operations [1:15 AM Eastern Daylight Time on Saturday, February 28], 9:45 AM local Tehran time, as dawn crept up across the Central Command AOR [Area of Responsibility], the sky surged to life. More than 100 aircraft launched from land and sea – fighters, tankers, airborne early warning, electronic attack, bombers from the states, and unmanned platforms forming a single synchronized wave.”
“This was a daylight strike based on a trigger event conducted by the Israeli Defense Forces enabled by the U.S. intelligence community,” Caine added. “The first shooters at sea were Tomahawks [land attack cruise missiles] unleashed by the United States Navy. Closed in on Iranian naval forces and began to conduct strikes across the southern flank in Iran. On the ground, forces fired precision standoff weapons – measured, deliberate, precise, and lethal. This was a massive, overwhelming attack across all domains of warfare, striking more than 1,000 targets in the first 24 hours.”
“We are now roughly 57 hours into the operation,” Caine further explained. “In the initial phase, CENTCOM’s [U.S. Central Command] focus was systematic targeting of Iranians [sic] command and control infrastructure, naval forces, ballistic missile sites, and intelligence infrastructure designed to daze and confuse them. Coordinated space and cyber operations effectively disrupted communications and sensor networks across the area of responsibility, leaving the adversary without the ability to see, coordinate, or respond effectively.”
“The combined impact of these strikes – swift, precise, and overwhelming – has resulted in the establishment of local air superiority. This air superiority will not only enhance the protection of our forces, but also allow them to continue the work over Iran. Over the course of the last two days, the Joint Force has launched hundreds of missions from land and sea and delivered tens of thousands of pieces of ordnance. The effort continues to scale,” the Chairman continued. “This included American B-2 bombers, which, again, similar to [Operation] Midnight Hammer [against Iran in 2025], flew a 37-hour round-trip sortie from the continental United States, dropping precision, penetrating munitions on Iranian underground facilities across the southern flank, slightly deeper. Additionally, Israel has separately executed hundreds of sorties against hundreds of targets.”
“While we’ve prosecuted a relentless offensive campaign, our defense has been equally important across the theater,” Caine also said. “Operations have remained [inaudible] and disciplined. Once again, our integrated air and missile defense network is performing exactly as it’s intended. U.S. Patriot and THAAD [Terminal High Altitude Area Defense] batteries, along with ballistic missile defense-capable Navy destroyers, continue to coordinate and execute intercepts with vision and consistency.”
“I wish that every American could hear the voice communications like I have as these joint operation centers remain calm, focused, cool, while executing under fire over and over again. Collectively, these systems have intercepted hundreds of ballistic missiles targeting U.S. forces, our partners, and regional stability,” Caine noted. “The threat from one-way attack UAVs [uncrewed aerial vehicles] has remained persistent. Our systems have proven effective in countering these platforms, engaging targets rapidly. Each intercept represents hundreds of hours of training, readiness, and technology, all coming together to work as designed. We will remain vigilant in the counter-UAV fight, and the defense of the region is not ours alone. As the threat grew, our partners surged in beside us. Air defense batteries in Qatar, the UAE [United Arab Emirates], Kuwait, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia joined the fight, proof positive that years of training, trust, and, hard-earned integration pay off.“
Caine also said he was aware of the loss of three U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles, to apparent friendly fire over Kuwait, but declined to provide more details. All six crew members are safe, and you can read more about the incident here.
In addition to the aforementioned friendly fire incident, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has now confirmed the death of a fourth U.S. service member. The individual in question “was seriously wounded during Iran’s initial attacks, [and] eventually succumbed to their injuries,” according to an official statement. Yesterday, the Pentagon confirmed that the three previously known fatalities of U.S. service members occurred during Iranian strikes on Kuwait.
The rest of our new ongoing coverage continues below, with the most recent updates at the top.
UPDATE: 9:36 AM EST-
The Israeli military may be mulling a possible ground invasion of Lebanon, after Hezbollah launched missiles and drones toward Israel overnight, which would open up a major new front in the war. Those attacks from the Lebanese militants were in retaliation for the killing of Iran’s supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, over the weekend.
In a briefing to reporters in Israel, a military spokesperson was asked if the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) were preparing for a possible ground invasion of Lebanon. The spokesperson said, “all options are on the table,” and then said Hezbollah “made a very bad mistake” by choosing to strike Israel overnight.
“The IDF will react very swiftly, and they will pay a heavy price,” the spokesperson added. “Hezbollah opened fire at us last night. It knew exactly what it was doing.”
In a brief update on X, the IDF said today it “struck” a “senior terrorist” from Hezbollah in Beirut and will be providing more details in due course.
Subsequently, the Israeli military said it had killed Hezbollah’s intelligence chief, Hussein Makled, overnight. The IDF also claimed it killed Sayed Yahya Hamidi, who it described as Iran’s deputy minister of intelligence for ‘Israel affairs,’ and Jalal Pour Hossein, who it claimed was the head of the espionage division (at the ministry of intelligence).
Israeli airstrikes on Beirut and southern Lebanon today killed at least 31 people and injured 149, according to Lebanon’s health ministry.
A video from the IDF shows Israeli strikes overnight in Dahiyeh in Beirut:
There are rumors of concern within the Pentagon, as well as other parts of the Trump administration, about the United States getting bogged down in a larger conflict. This comes now amid the prospect of Israel expanding operations against Lebanon.
Chief among the reported concerns of U.S. officials is the stockpile of suitable interceptors for air defense systems, especially as Iran continues to launch missiles and especially drones at targets across the region. The inventory of Iranian long-range one-way attack drones is something that the propaganda arm in Tehran is trying to capitalize on. This is something TWZ highlighted in an in-depth piece regarding questions hanging over any major new American air campaign against Iran shortly before the conflict erupted.
Another two Iranian drones heading toward the British airbase of RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus were “successfully intercepted,” according to a spokesperson for the Cypriot government. The incident comes after an Iranian drone reportedly struck the base last night. The incident is not thought to have caused any casualties and only limited damage.
Cypriot authorities have opened emergency shelters following the Iranian drone strike against RAF Akrotiri.
In a joint statement, the United States and six allied Gulf states — Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates — have condemned Iran’s “indiscriminate and reckless attacks” across the region. They blame Tehran for strikes that have “targeted sovereign territories, endangered civilians, and inflicted damage on civilian infrastructure.”
The statement continues: “Iran’s actions represent a dangerous escalation that violates the sovereignty of multiple states and threatens regional stability. Targeting civilians and non-combatant states is reckless behavior that undermines stability. We stand united in defense of our citizens, our sovereignty, and our territories, and we reaffirm our right to self-defense in the face of these attacks, while underscoring our commitment to regional security and commending the effective cooperation in air and missile defense that prevented greater loss of life and destruction.”
The statement confirms that, so far, attacks have occurred in Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Cyprus can also be added to this list.
Of these, there have been notable reports in the last 12 hours of explosions in Dubai and Samha in the UAE, and in Doha, the capital of Qatar.
Among the high-profile targets to be hit is the Ras Tanura refinery in Saudi Arabia, one of the Middle East’s largest. Saudi Arabia’s energy ministry announced today that some operations at Ras Tanura have been halted, after an attack set fire to part of the complex. The ministry said that the refinery sustained “minor damage from falling debris” due to the interception of “two drones in the refinery’s vicinity.”
“Some operational units at the refinery were shut down as a precautionary measure, without any impact on the supply of petroleum products to local markets,” Saudi Arabia’s energy ministry said.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the United Nations nuclear watchdog, says there is no evidence that any of Iran’s nuclear facilities have sustained damage or have been hit in U.S.-Israeli strikes so far.
According to Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations nuclear watchdog, one of the targets of the strikes was the Natanz nuclear facility, the Reuters news agency reported. “Again they attacked Iran’s peaceful, safeguarded nuclear facilities yesterday,” Reza Najafi told reporters at a meeting of the IAEA board of governors.
The Natanz nuclear facility was among the sites struck in the U.S-Israeli airstrikes against Iran in June 2025.
The U.S.-flagged oil tanker Stena Imperative suffered at least two direct hits from a suspected Iranian projectile while in the Port of Bahrain, a maritime security official confirmed to TWZ.
It is unclear at the moment if the ship was struck by a missile or a drone, the official added.
Shortly before 5:30 a.m. Eastern, the United Kingdom Marine Trade Operations (UKMTO) organization, which is managed by the Royal Navy in the United Kingdom, stated that it “received a report of an incident in the Port of Bahrain. The Company Security Officer reported that the vessel had been struck by two unknown projectiles, causing a fire. The fire has been extinguished, and the vessel remains in port. All members of the ship’s crew are safe and have evacuated the vessel. Authorities are investigating.”
“Vessels are to remain cautious and report any suspicious activity to UKMTO,” the organization added.
It has been reported that the tanker is part of the U.S. Maritime Administration’s Tanker Security Program, which “exists to enhance U.S. supply chain resiliency for liquid fuel products.” The Tanker Security Program came into effect in 2021 and empowered the Department of Transportation to create an ad-hoc 10-ship expanded U.S.-flagged tanker fleet for use in a crisis.
Iran’s president, Masoud Pezeshkian, has appointed Revolutionary Guards general Majid Ebnelreza as acting defense minister after his predecessor was killed in an airstrike.
Contact the editor: thomas@thewarzone.com
Marshals: A Yellowstone Story cast and where you’ve seen them before
The new Yellowstone spin-off Marshals features a stellar cast of recognisable faces, so where might fans already know them from?
Full cast of Marshals: A Yellowstone Story(Image: CBS)
Marshals: A Yellowstone Story has just begun, with Kayce Dutton (played by Luke Grimes) returning to screens in an exhilarating series premiere.
The new spin-off began on CBS last Sunday night (1st March) in the US, with new episodes also dropping each Monday on Paramount+ across the globe.
Picking up from the fifth and final season of the flagship Western drama created by Taylor Sheridan, the series follows Kayce Dutton (played by Luke Grimes) as he joins a team of US Marshals who fight violent crime across Montana.
With countless Yellowstone fans expected to tune in, fans will no doubt be wondering where they recognise the show’s brilliant cast of newcomers and old favourites.
Let’s take a look at some of the biggest names gracing the screens in the latest epic chapter in the Dutton saga.
Who stars in Marshals: A Yellowstone Story?
Luke Grimes will be reprising his leading role as Kayce, with fellow Yellowstone star Brecken Merrill also returning as his on-screen son, Tate. Away from the hit Western franchise, Merrill has also appeared in the 2025 thriller film Lifeline.
Grimes has recently appeared in the film Eddington, starring Joaquin Phoenix and Pedro Pascal, and has also starred in the Fifty Shades of Grey trilogy as Elliot, the younger brother of Jamie Dornan’s Christian Grey.
Two additional stalwarts from the original series are confirmed to be returning: Gil Birmingham as Chief Thomas Rainwater, the Chairman of the Broken Rock Reservation, and Mo Brings Plenty as his trusted aide, Mo.
Birmingham is perhaps best known for his roles in the Taylor Sheridan-scripted films Wind River and Hell or High Water, as well as for playing Billy Black in the Twilight films. Mo has appeared in the films Jurassic World Dominion and Dead Man’s Hand, as well as TV shows The Good Lord Bird and Lawmen: Bass Reeves.
The main cast is rounded out by four newcomers portraying Kayce’s colleagues with the US Marshals. They are Arielle Kebbel (The Vampire Diaries) as Belle Skinner, Ash Santos (American Horror Story) as Andrea Cruz, Tatanka Means (Killers of the Flower Moon) as Miles Kittle, and Logan Marshall-Green (Upgrade) as Pete Calvin.
Kebbel has also appeared in hit shows such as Gilmore Girls and co-starred with Grimes in Fifty Shades Freed, while Marshal-Green is recognised for his roles in Spider-Man: Homecoming, Prometheus, and When They See Us.
Meanwhile, Santos has appeared in Lindsay Lohan’s Christmas rom-com Our Little Secret, Mayor of Kingstown, and Pulse, and Means is also known for Western drama series The Son, Reservation Dogs and Kevin Costner’s ambitious Horizon film series.
Brett Cullen (The West Wing) is also set for recurring appearances as Harry Gifford, the head of Montana’s US Marshals unit who distrusts Kayce and the rest of the Duttons.
Ellyn Jameson Barry also has a recurring role as Dolly Weaver, while the first season has so far featured guest appearances from Chad Michael Collins (Sniper) as Owen Kilborn, and Loren Anthony (The Lone Ranger) as Jim Kane
Paramount+ half price sale
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Paramount+ is offering 50% off its Standard and Premium subscriptions until July 10.
Finally, main cast member Kebbel has hinted that several “recognisable” country music stars will be making guest appearances throughout the series.
This includes singer Riley Green making his acting debut, while others will be making cameo appearances performing some of their hit tracks. Keep your eyes peeled for some familiar faces.
Marshals: A Yellowstone Story continues Sundays on CBS and Mondays on Paramount+.
For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new ** Everything Gossip ** website.
Ensure our latest headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. ** Click here to activate** ** or add us as your Preferred Source in your Google search settings.**
Thousands of UK holidaymakers caught in Iran crisis with pitiful passenger rights
DUE to the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, many Brits will find their holiday plans postponed or cancelled.
From those who are stranded in the UAE or supposed to be heading abroad, what does the conflict mean when it comes to travel insurance and your airline rights?
Well, UK travellers stranded across the globe or due to fly via the Middle East in the coming days have very different rights depending on who they booked their trip with.
Those who booked flights with a non UK or EU airline like Emirates, Etihad or Qatar and were travelling from a destination outside the UK via the Middle Eastern hubs have limited rights compared to those who are travelling with a UK or EU airline or flying directly in or out of the UK.
UK passenger rights mean airlines have a duty of care to provide you with food and drink while you are delayed as well as a way to communicate by email or phone and overnight hotels and transfers if needed.
Under these same rights, the airline must get you to your destination as soon as is possible, even if that involves a different airline.
Read More on Travel Advice
However, those travelling on non UK or EU flights from elsewhere in the world to the big hub airports in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar do not get the same rights.
This could be someone travelling from Thailand back to the UK via Dubai that is now stranded in Thailand as flights have been cancelled and the airspace is closed.
Airlines in this case MUST get you to your destination as soon as possible but there is no legal right to meals, accommodation or communication.
They also must provide you with a refund if you choose not to travel but beware of this option. The minute you accept a refund, the airline has no duty of care to you and no obligation to re-route you.
You would then need to book new flights yourself, which may be significantly more expensive. Travel insurance would not cover the difference between a refunded ticket and a new booking.
Despite this, the General Civil Aviation Authority in the UAE have – in a very rare move – confirmed that the state would be covering all accommodation and hosting costs for stranded passengers.
Of course, this only applies to Brits who are stranded in the UAE, so the likes of Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
Due to its location many holidaymakers will pass through the likes of Dubai or Doha before travelling onwards during an indirect journey.
In fact more than half a million travellers head through the hubs of Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha every day.
For Brits, many long-haul flights to destinations like Thailand, Australia and South Africa generally stop in these airports.
Due the ongoing conflict, the airspace has been closed, as have the airports in Dubai and Doha.
Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi is starting up very limited flights with Etihad Airways.
Tim Riley, MD of travel insurer True Traveller and chairman of the UK Travel Industry Association, which represents all the major UK insurers, has advice for impacted travellers.
He explained that while airlines have an obligation to re-route passengers, they cannot override certain situations.
Tim said: “The primary issue in the current situation is airspace closures and the inability to leave the country.
“Travel insurance cannot override government airspace restrictions or operate repatriation flights.
“Airlines have a legal obligation to re-route passengers to their final destination once services resume, whether on their own aircraft or with an alternative carrier.”
Airlines are releasing statements on imminent trips, and head here for the latest updates on flights and holidays.
Here are the top 10 indirect flights via Dubai with Emirates…
These are the top routes used by Brits that stop via Dubai…
- London (LHR/LGW) – Dubai – Bangkok
- Manchester – Dubai – Phuket
- London (LHR) – Dubai – Sydney
- London (LHR/LGW) – Dubai – Melbourne
- Manchester – Dubai – Singapore
- London (LHR) – Dubai – Mauritius
- Glasgow – Dubai – Bali
- London (LHR) – Dubai – Tokyo
- Birmingham – Dubai – Cape Town
- London (LHR) – Dubai – Colombo
Here are the top 10 indirect flights via Doha with Qatar Airways…
These are the top routes that stop via Doha …
- London (LHR) – Doha – Bangkok
- Manchester – Doha – Manila
- London (LHR/LGW) – Doha – Denpasar/Bali
- London (LHR) – Doha – Sydney
- Manchester – Doha – Phuket
- London (LHR) – Doha – Male
- Edinburgh – Doha – Kuala Lumpur
- London (LHR) – Doha – Ho Chi Minh City
- Manchester – Doha – Colombo
- London (LHR) – Doha – Perth
Here’s where you’ll find information on Cyprus airport which was evacuated as easyJet and British Airways among 60 flights to cancel.
And for staycations, here’s the beautiful UK holiday hotspot with shipwrecks, seals and horseshoe-shaped waterfalls.
From Thailand to the Maldives
ONGOING escalations in the Middle East have seen thousands of flights cancelled in recent days, leaving even more stranded.
While the majority of those affected are in Dubai, along with Doha and Abu Dhabi, the airspace closure has had a knock-on effect to other countries.
Dubai‘s main airport is not just one of the world’s busiest, but is a major hub which connects Europe to long-haul destinations in Africa and Asia.
Not only that, but airlines that were due to fly over the airspace may be forced to cancel or reroute flights.
Here are some of the other destinations that have also been affected by the US-Iran crisis, outside of the Middle East.
Thailand
Tourists heading to Thailand have been caught up in the flight cancellations as well.
Local media reported 59 international flights cancelled in recent days, either to the Middle East or via the airspace.
Thailand has already looked into offering support by hotels and food for those stuck at the airport, with plans for special travel packages for those still unable to fly.
Despite this, direct flights such as with Norse Airways to Bangkok are still operating later this week.
Others on social media said they were having to fly via other routes such as South Korea, Singapore and Hong Kong.
Another said: “Fly Oman Air – We just flew them yesterday from Phuket to Muscat to London”.
And Thailand is still deemed safe to travel to, excluding the areas on the Malaysia and Cambodia border.
Maldives
The Maldives is also seeing flight cancellations, especially those to and from Europe.
European tourism makes up half of the annual visitor numbers, with the majority of flights being via the Middle East.
Around 28 flights were cancelled over the weekend, affecting more than 5,000 passengers.
One person wrote on TikTok: “We’ve had to rebook our Emirates flight and we are going from the Maldives to Shanghai to then get back to London”.
Direct flights can still operate with Virgin Atlantic although these might now take longer.
The Maldives is still on the safe travel list.
Bali
Brits heading to Bali would have most likely travelled via the Middle East.
However, more than 15 flights have been cancelled since the weekend, affecting flights from Bali via Abu Dhabi, Doha and Dubai.
Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport’s Gede Eka Sandi Asmadi said: “As of Monday afternoon, a total of 15 international flights have been cancelled.”
Brits will instead have to look at flying via other hubs such as Singapore, with Singapore Airlines, or via Istanbul with Turkish Airlines.
Stranded tourists are saying they are booking flights via Shanghai instead, or to fly via Australia and Los Angeles.
Bali remains safe to travel to.
Sri Lanka
Tourists have also been left stuck in Sri Lanka due to the Middle East cancellations.
SriLankan Airlines has cancelled 10 flights to the Middle East due “the continued closure of airspace in certain parts of the Middle East.”
These were due to fly to Dubai, Doha, Dammam, Riyadh, and Kuwait.
Some passengers aid they were stuck in Colombo Airport, while others said they were having to fly via Bangkok instead.
SriLankan Airlines does operate a direct route from London once a day, which still appears to be in operation.
All of Sri Lanka remains on the safe travel list.
Australia
One of the main flight routes between the UK and Australia is via Dubai, which has resulted in many flight cancellations.
As many as 115,000 Australians are thought to be currently stranded in the Middle East right now.
Nearly 30 flights were left stuck at airports across Australia yesterday, with mainly planned to fly to Doha or Dubai.
Alternative routes include going via Singapore, Kuala Lumpur or Hong Kong, or flying directly to Perth.
However, flights are likely to take longer due to rerouting to avoid the airspace.
There are no travel warnings in place for Australia.
Egypt
Egypt holidays and flights remain unaffected, with routes from the UK not flying over the Middle East airspace closure.
There are travel bans in place across Egypt, mainly across the Libya and Israel border.
However, the tourist destinations of Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada remain safe to travel to.
Turkey
Turkey also remains unaffected as flights from the UK do not go over the Middle Eastern airspace.
The majority of Turkey remains safe to travel to, excluding the border with Syria.
Lowry finds water twice to squander tournament lead
Ireland’s Shane Lowry finds water off the tee on both the 16th and 17th holes to blow his three-shot lead and finish runner-up at the Cognizant Classic.
Source link
Hegseth: US didn’t start war with Iran, but we are ‘finishing it’ | Israel-Iran conflict
Blaming Iran for previous attacks on Americans in the region, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth says Washington didn’t start the war, but under President Donald Trump, “we’re finishing it”.
Published On 2 Mar 2026
Historic English train station opens pretty new pub as part of £27million upgrade
FANCY a pint? This new heritage pub is set to become a popular spot for a post or pre-train journey tipple.
The boozer has just opened as part of an enormous multi-million pound refurb at Carlisle Station.
Called The Scott & Brassey, the new pub officially opened on 25 February inside Carlisle Station at Platform 4.
It was formerly used as a First Class waiting room and at one stage even welcomed Queen Victoria.
The Grade-II listed space has been used as various different outlets over the years and was a cafe for decades – but has just opened as a pretty pub operated by Lancaster Brewery.
It has undergone a £400,000 renovation delivered by Network Rail, backed by Avanti West Coast and the Railway Heritage Trust.
Its name ‘The Scott & Brassey’ comes from novelist Sir Walter Scott and Victorian railway pioneer Thomas Brassey.
Inside, the pub has period features like a large fireplace, and vaulted beam ceilings.
The walls are a mix of deep blue and bright yellow, in the corner are cosy booths with low lampshades.
Upstairs on the mezzanine level is additional seating at smaller tables.
The bar area is sleek and modern with a wooden top and dark grey tiled front along with lots of greenery on shelves and of course, drinks offerings.
It will have seven cask ales on hand pull, five from Lancaster Brewery and two from local cask brewers, and one cask cider – there will also be eight keg lines.
The pub said it aims to spotlight ‘regional and national producers with one of the largest selections in Cumbria‘.
On Facebook reviews, one visitor to the new pub wrote: “Had a great afternoon with my mum and sister today! lovely staff and a fabulous asset to Carlisle.”
Another said: “What a fab job you’ve done. Stunning renovation and fantastic atmosphere.”
The pub is open every day from 11am until 10pm Sunday-Thursday and 11pm Friday-Saturday.
It’s dog-friendly too.
The new pub is inside Carlisle Station which is around 179 years old, and is in the middle of a huge overhaul.
Carlisle Station cost just £53,000 to build at the time, which in today’s money is around £4.6million.
It now welcomes around two million passengers a year with trains to London and Manchester as well as Edinburgh, Liverpool and Newcastle.
Cumberland Council previously announced it would be spending £28million on redesigning Carlisle Station.
The new designs include the creation of a new forecourt entrance to the north of the station.
The north side will have improved links to the city centre, and parking outside the already standing Griffin pub.
It will also see a new piazza space, called George Square created to the south of the station.
This will mean improved access for passengers, and secure cycle parking, as well as plenty of green spaces.
The work is set to be fully complete in early 2027.
For more on train station’s, this is one of the UK’s busiest that’s set to undergo a huge transformation.
And the seven new train stations are coming to UK under £14billion plans.
I visited the picturesque seaside town with the best fish and chip shop in the UK
WHITBY – with a fascinating history spanning sailors to vampires, a dramatic coastal path, and the very best in pints and scampi… it takes a lot to beat this coastal gem.
And now, the pretty seaside destination has also been announced as the home of the best fish and chips in the UK.
Trenchers of Whitby secured the Restaurant of the Year title at the National Fish and Chips Awards 2026.
The awards are known as the ‘Oscars‘ of the fish and chip industry and recognise excellence, sustainability, quality and outstanding customer service, across the UK.
The restaurant can be found in the centre of Whitby, and you can either sit down or take away.
If you were heading to the restaurant you can opt for plaice with chipped potatoes, lemon and homemade tartare sauce for £20.95.
Read more on travel inspo
If you fancy something more classic, there is cod with chipped potatoes, lemon and homemade tartare sauce in three sizes: small for £15.95; medium for £19.95 and large for £21.95.
Then for takeaway, you could grab cod and chips, haddock and chips or scampi and chips all for £13.50 each.
There’s a children’s menu as well.
A visit to Whitby ticks off all the British seaside classics, although there is so much more to the historic fishing town than you’d find in a traditional day out.
In my trip to the North Yorkshire town, I ticked off all the staple activities. A Mr Whippy enjoyed by the harbour, spare change spent in Funland’s Amusements, and fish and chips for tea.
Plus my stroll along the sands, backed by spectacular moss-green cliffs, was an ideal way to soak up those breath-taking views of the rugged Yorkshire coast.
One of the things that makes Whitby stand out amongst other seaside spots is its connection to a famous explorer.
The Captain Cook Museum ‘House on the Harbour’ is a must-visit – it was where a young James Cook was an apprentice to Captain John Walker, aged 17, in 1746.
This is where I spent the afternoon, having a nosy inside the 17th century rooms where the explorer used to live.
There’s also a Captain Cook boat tour on offer at the harbour, telling you all about the life of the famous explorer – with plenty of breaks for sea shanties to stomp and sing along to.
But once I’d had my fill of cosy boltholes, battered foods and beach walks, what intrigued me the most about the town was its connection to Dracula.
You can see the Gothic Whitby Abbey from across the harbour, keeping watch over the town from its clifftop perch.
I could feel the eeriness just laying eyes on the ruins – it was as if for a moment I could picture Count Dracula lurking somewhere within.
Dracula writer Bram Stoker visited Whitby in 1890, where he was immediately struck by the dramatic Gothic ruins that loom over the pretty coastal town.
Stoker then read up on folklore in the town’s public library, and was filled with inspiration to write the classic text – and the rest is history.
Today the town celebrates its Dracula connection, with themed walking tours, a Dracula Experience centre and there’s even been theatre productions held in the abbey ruins.
In fact, to celebrate 125 years since the novel’s publication, English Heritage broke a Guinness World Record back in 2022 for the largest gathering of people dressed as vampires (1,369, to be exact!).
You can even walk the famous Whitby 199 steps – the very same which a sinister black dog dashes up to announce Dracula’s arrival in Whitby in the famous book.
Walking them in the daytime felt much more scenic than spooky, with views of red-roofed cottages and blooming Red Valerian flowers peeking out with each step.
The steps lead you to the 12th century St Mary’s Church, which is well worth a visit for its panoramic views over the bay – particularly at sunset.
If you like a coastal walk, there’s a portion of the Cleveland Way coastal path with spectacular views that passes through the town.
And if you walk far south enough along the Cleveland Way coastal path from Whitby (or take a 15-minute drive), you’ll wind up in Robin Hood’s Bay.
Exploring the fairytale streets that back the bay is an absolute must as well.
Here, narrow cobbled alleys are dotted with charming gift shops and tiny pubs which wind down the steep hillside, leading you down to the sea.
Sat with a pint at the Bay Hotel, I watched a fisherman play fetch with his Border Collie at the water’s edge – and realised that this pretty coastline truly is something straight out of a storybook.
To make matters even more magical, the following day was spent exploring the nearby waterfalls of Goathland and the Mallyan Spout – just a 20-minute drive from Whitby.
So if you’re after a seaside escape that feels both traditionally British yet has a touch of fairytale magic – set off on a trip to Whitby.
If you are wanting to explore more places with top fish and chip spots, here’s a map of Britain’s top 10 fish and chip shops – did your local make the list?
Plus, last summer, travel reporter Cyann Fielding, visited the seaside town with the UK’s best fish and chips.
T20 World Cup: Reasons England can beat India – and reasons they won’t
Despite any talk of top-order frailties, India remain a frightening T20 team.
Yes, they were well beaten by South Africa and given a scare by USA but there is a reason they came into this tournament as overwhelming favourites.
Between the end of the last T20 World Cup in 2024 and the start of this, India won 33 of their 41 matches making them the most consistent team cricket’s most inconsistent format has seen.
With the bat, they started slowly in this tournament but gained momentum by scoring 256-4 against Zimbabwe in the penultimate match of the Super 8s.
They scored 69 runs in the final four overs that day – something that is becoming a clear strength.
India are only the 10th fastest-scoring team in the middle phase of an innings but have hit more boundaries than anyone else at the death. They have hit 57 boundaries in the last four overs compared to England’s 44.
And while India have not lost a T20 at the Wankhede since 2017, it is a ground with bad memories for England.
It is where they lost to West Indies in the group stage, were beaten by a record 150 runs by India last year – Abhishek scored 135 from 54 balls that day – and lost to South Africa in their largest one-day international defeat in terms of runs at the 2023 World Cup.
That day, England wilted in the Mumbai heat and temperatures are forecast to hit 39 degrees during the daylight hours on Thursday.
It will not be much cooler when the match begins at 19:00 local time.
90s bombshell Ali Larter, 50, looks HALF her age as she rocks red carpet in plunging scarlet gown at Actor Awards
ICONIC 90s actress Ali Larter has left fans’ jaws on the floor, showing off her youthful look at the Actor Awards.
The actress, known for her roles in Legally Blonde, Varsity Blues, and Landman, was nominated for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series.
One day after her 50th birthday, Ali stepped out on the red carpet at the Actor Awards, formerly known as the SAG Awards.
She posed for photos at the event in a strapless crimson gown by Zuhair Murah with a sweetheart neckline.
The gown, which accentuated her curves, reached all the way to the floor.
Ali looked absolutely ageless, completing the look with bouncy curls in her blonde hair, a bold dark red lip, and chunky jewelry.
On the red carpet, the actress opened up about her gratitude in an interview with E!.
“Life is beautiful. I’m on a show that has just caught on with people all over the world. My children are healthy. My parents are great. I’m just full of gratitude,” she said.
She also told the outlet that her outfit choice was intentional.
“I feel like this is a celebration of acting and actors… It’s kind of a throwback to the retro queens, the heroines. And I just think that his dresses express femininity – it accentuates the curves,” she said.
Most read in Entertainment
Big winner
Landman was nominated for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series against several other hit shows.
Nominees included The Diplomat, Severance, The Pitt, and The White Lotus.
Ali stars in Landman alongside Billy Bob Thornton, Michelle Randolph, Demi Moore, Sam Elliott, and Kayla Wallace.
Ultimately, the cast of HBO Max’s The Pitt walked away with the award.
The show’s star, Noah Wyle, delivered the acceptance speech with the rest of the cast beside him.
European gas prices jump by as much as 45% as Qatar stops LNG production
The benchmark European gas price, traded on the Dutch TTF hub, rose by as much as 45% to around €46 per megawatt-hour in early afternoon trading.
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
UK natural gas prices also surged, with the NBP benchmark climbing sharply in tandem with continental markets.
High market volatility has driven sharp minute-by-minute swings.
The sharp increase follows US and Israeli strikes on Iran, which have heightened tensions in a region critical to global energy flows.
QatarEnergy announced early Monday afternoon that it had halted liquefied natural gas production linked to the giant North Field gas reservoir following an attack on its facilities, but gave no further details as to the extent of the impact on operations.
Strait of Hormuz disruption raises global concerns
A large proportion of the world’s energy supply comes from the Middle East, and before the announcement from Qatar, the seaborne oil and gas transport was at the centre of market fears.
The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow maritime passage largely controlled by Iran, is one of the world’s most important energy chokepoints for oil and LNG, including exports from Qatar.
Iran has moved to block traffic through the strait following the strikes, raising concerns about supply interruptions.
“In modern history, the Strait of Hormuz has never been actually closed, albeit a temporary slowing of traffic has occurred,” said Maurizio Carulli, global energy analyst at Quilter Cheviot.
He added that “about 20% of global oil supply transits through the Strait of Hormuz and 38% of seaborne crude oil trade.”
Carulli does not expect oil shipping companies to send through their vessels until “the military situation de-escalates”, due to the risk of ship damage or seizures, as well as temporary unavailability of insurance cover.
“Satellite data shows that oil tanker transit had virtually halted over the weekend, a precautionary measure by shipping companies,” he added.
Any sustained disruption could affect LNG shipments from Qatar, which supplies around 12% to 14% of Europe’s LNG imports.
Europe exposed to global competition
While Europe does not rely primarily on Qatari gas, analysts say the indirect impact could still be significant.
If supplies to Asia are disrupted, buyers there may seek alternative cargoes, increasing global competition for LNG.
This would likely push prices higher worldwide, including in Europe.
Qatar, the world’s third-largest LNG exporter after the United States and Australia, has become an increasingly important supplier to Europe since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 forced European countries to reduce their dependence on Russian pipeline gas.
Low storage levels increase vulnerability
Europe’s relatively low gas storage levels have added to market anxiety.
Storage across the European Union is currently below 30% capacity as the winter heating season draws to a close, compared with around 40% at the same point last year.
Germany and France, the bloc’s two largest economies, are among the most vulnerable.
Germany’s gas storage facilities were 20.5% full as of Saturday, while France’s stood at 21%, according to data from Gas Infrastructure Europe.
Lower reserves leave countries more vulnerable to supply disruptions and price volatility, particularly if global LNG markets tighten further.
Ryanair, easyJet, TUI, BA and Jet2 updates as Cyprus airport evacuated
Passengers have been evacuated from Paphos International Airport in Cyprus amid reports of an unidentified drone flying into its airspace. Here are the latest updates from airlines with flights to the island.
Paphos Airport was evacuated this morning – FILE PHOTO(Image: Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
Paphos International Airport in Cyprus ordered an ‘immediate and total evacuation’ this morning (March 2) amid reports that an unidentified drone had been flown into its restricted airspace.
Some European airlines including easyJet have already been cancelling their flights to Larnaca International Airport, a major hub for package holidays, after a drone strike hit the RAF base in Akrotiri in Cyprus.
Cyprus is a popular destination for Brits, with over 1.3 million visiting each year, and with the busy Easter period on the way, many holidaymakers may be wondering how this will affect their travel plans. Around 60 flights have been cancelled to the island today, and airlines will be closely monitoring the situation in order to make a decision on resuming flights in the coming days and weeks.
Check out updates from airlines including British Airways and easyJet below. Travellers to the island should also keep up to date with FCDO advice for Cyprus, as the situation is likely to change quickly.
British Airways (BA)
BA said in its latest statement: “We are closely monitoring the situation and have cancelled a number of flights to the Middle East. We understand it is a difficult time for customers in affected destinations and we are in contact with them to offer reassurance and support. Safety is our top priority and we will only operate a flight if it is safe to do so.”
It added: “We have cancelled flights to Amman, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Dubai, Doha and Tel Aviv up to and including the 05 March and today’s Larnaca service [March 2].
“We have actioned a flexible customer booking policy which allows all customers due to travel between London Heathrow and Abu Dhabi, Amman, Bahrain, Doha, Dubai, Tel Aviv in the coming days the option to change their flights for free or get a refund. Customers travelling to Larnaca can rebook for free.
“We are advising customers to check their flight status on BA.com for the latest updates before travelling to the airport due to the evolving situation.”
EasyJet
EasyJet has been advising passengers on X (formerly Twitter) to check its Flight Tracker for the latest information on whether their Cyprus flight will be delayed or cancelled.
An easyJet spokesperson told The Express: “Due to the events overnight affecting the RAF base in Akrotiri in Cyprus, as a precaution, three return flights between Paphos and Larnaca and the UK today will not be operating.
“Flights from 3 March are currently operating as planned but we would advise customers due to travel to and from Cyprus over the coming days to check our flight tracker for the latest information.
“We are doing all we can to minimise the impact for our customers and are providing options for rebooking including on other airlines or a refund as well as hotel accommodation and meals for those who require them.”
TUI
A TUI spokesperson said: “The safety of our customers is our highest priority, and we are closely monitoring the situation in the middle east and surrounding regions. We are currently operating our Cyprus program as planned, but as this is an evolving situation, that could be subject to change.” Paphos and Larnaca airport shows TUI flights scheduled from Wednesday onwards, with no cancellations or delays showing at the time of writing.
TUI has also previously released a statement for customers due to fly out to the UAE or Qatar up to and including March 8, advising: “our pre-travel team will be in contact with you ahead of your departure date.” It also advises: “We are working though bookings in date order and will call you to discuss your options. However, if you would prefer, please call us on 0203 451 2688.” Should the current situation extend to Cyprus, it’s likely the process would be the same.
READ MORE: Emirates, British Airways and Wizz Air’s latest updates on UAE flight cancellationsREAD MORE: What travel insurance will actually cover if you’re affected by UAE travel chaos
Jet2
Jet2 flights scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday (March 3 and 4) are not yet showing as cancelled or delayed on the Paphos Airport website. Customers who have asked for advice via Jet2’s official X account have been advised to contact the Jet2 pre-travel team via Whatsapp to discuss their options.
Ensure our latest stories always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as your Preferred Source in your Google search settings.
Column: Scary time for California Democrats
SACRAMENTO — The race for California governor couldn’t be much closer. And that’s scary for Democrats.
Only the top two vote-getters in the June 2 primary — regardless of their party — will advance to the November election. And although still unlikely, it’s increasingly conceivable that both could be Republicans.
“Scare tactics,” claim naysaying Democrats of such speculation.
But Democrats should have heeded scary rumblings 10 years ago when long shot Donald Trump was first running for president — and not buried their heads in the sand again two years ago when Joe Biden was feebly seeking reelection.
They ignored the warning signs and paid the price.
Now, the latest independent poll of likely voters shows that Republican candidates are running in two of the top three places for governor — meaning it’s possible both could qualify for the November ballot, guaranteeing the first election of a GOP chief executive in 20 years.
The best odds are on one Democrat and one Republican finishing in the top two — virtually assuring a Democratic victory in November.
California is too solidly Democrat — and President Trump too despised here — to envision a Republican beating a Democrat to replace termed-out Gov. Gavin Newsom.
But Democrats could beat themselves if the current field of candidates remains intact. There essentially are eight Democrats and only two Republicans competing in the primary.
If the combined Democratic vote is splintered among the eight Democratic contestants, the two Republicans could end up finishing first and second.
“It’s hard to come up with the math that makes that work,” asserts Mark Baldassare, polling director for the nonpartisan Public Policy Institute of California. He just completed a survey in which “a lot of things show that a Democrat and Republican [top-two finish] is the likely outcome,” he says.
But political data guru Paul Mitchell has been running primary election simulations and after Baldassare’s latest poll, he calculated the chances of an all-Republican finish at 18%.
That seems like the danger zone.
The solution is for some Democratic candidates who have little hope of winning to drop out of the race — very soon, in fact. They shouldn’t even file their official candidacy papers that are due by Friday. After that deadline, it’s impossible to remove their names from the ballot even if they’re no longer really running.
The PPIC poll, released last week, showed a statistical tie between the top five contenders — three Democrats and two Republicans, all within 4 percentage points of each other.
The breakdown:
Republican former Fox News commentator Steve Hilton, 14%; Democratic former Rep. Katie Porter, 13%; Republican Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, 12%; Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell, 11%; Democratic hedge fund founder Tom Steyer, 10%.
Then came five Democratic stragglers.
Former U.S. Health Secretary Xavier Becerra, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and former state Controller Betty Yee each had 5%. Trailing them were San José Mayor Matt Mahan with 3% and state Supt. of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond at 2%.
Mahan’s a centrist wild card who jumped into the race while the polling was underway. So, there’s a valid excuse for his poor showing.
Swalwell and Steyer entered late last year and apparently took votes away from Porter and Becerra.
Porter and Yee are the only prominent female candidates, but they aren’t particularly being helped by female voters, the poll showed.
There was good news in the survey for Democrats hoping to pick up more congressional seats in California and help the party seize control of the House of Representatives from Republicans.
Asked whether they’d vote for a Democrat or Republican for Congress, 62% replied Democrat and only 36% Republican. That’s not surprising, since Democrats already hold 43 of California’s 52 seats.
Newsom and the Democratic-controlled Legislature last year gerrymandered California’s House districts with the goal of gaining at least five more seats. Voters approved that move by passing Proposition 50.
The especially bright news in the poll for Democrats was that in the five new House districts considered the most competitive, Democrats had a slight edge in voter preference. That was also true in districts held by Republicans.
Additionally, Democrats are much more enthusiastic than Republicans about voting in the congressional contests.
In the competitive districts, nearly two-thirds of voters disapprove of tactics by Immigration and Customs Enforcement in corralling undocumented immigrants. And 57% disapprove of Trump.
Anti-Trump sentiment is extremely high among all voters — 30% approval and 70% disapproval.
One head-scratcher in the poll was the voters’ denial about their political polarization. They were asked what qualification they considered most important in choosing a governor. Only 6% said it was the candidate’s political party. Rubbage.
“There are very few people who are voting outside their party,” Baldassare notes.
Two-thirds of voters answered that a candidate’s stand on issues is the most important consideration for them. Voters of both parties, plus independents, rated a candidate’s position on “affordability” as “very” important — and it topped their list of concerns.
A majority of voters said California is “going in the wrong direction.” This is a gloomy finding for Democrats who have been ruling state government — and most large cities — for many years.
But a much larger majority believe the country also is headed in the wrong direction. Back at ya, Republicans. It’s the GOP that’s in total control of the federal government.
Both parties in California have reasons to run scared this year.
What else you should be reading
The must-read: California Democrats unite against Trump, differ on vision for state’s future
Salud: Retired 100-year-old fighter pilot from Escondido receives Medal of Honor
The L.A. Times Special: Gavin Newsom and Kamala Harris have traveled parallel paths. Will they collide in 2028?
Until next week,
George Skelton
—
Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Sign up here to get it in your inbox.
Prep Rally: Sierra Canyon makes history during a great weekend of championship basketball
Hi, and welcome to another edition of Prep Rally. I’m Eric Sondheimer. The state basketball playoff pairings are out, but let’s look back on quite a weekend of championship basketball.
Sierra Canyon double
Sierra Canyon’s Jerzy Robinson drives against Ontario Christian’s Kaleena Smith in the first half of the Southern Section Open Division championship game.
(Steve Galluzzo / For The Times)
For the first time in the history of the Southern Section Open Division, one school swept the boys and girls titles: Sierra Canyon.
The girls final drew the largest individual game crowd at Toyota Arena, with Sierra Canyon and All-American Jerzy Robinson upsetting Ontario Christian and All-American Kaleena Smith 69-62. Robinson scored 32 points. Smith scored 30 points.
“What a battle,” Sierra Canyon coach Alicia Komaki said. “There were a lot of top players on that court.”
The duel between Robinson and Smith, however, was one to remember. The 5-foot-4 Smith was purposely being guarded by the 6-1 Robinson.
“Jerzy is an elite defender and can guard anybody,” Komaki said. “She was going to do whatever she could to win.”
Here’s the report.
Maxi Adams of Sierra Canyon rises to deliver a dunk against Harvard-Westlake in Open Division championship game.
(Steve Galluzzo)
In the boys final, heavily favored Sierra Canyon saw its lead drop to three points with 19.3 seconds left before prevailing over a stubborn Harvard-Westlake team 59-53. Here’s the report.
In Southern Section Division 1, Crean Lutheran held off JSerra. In Division 2, Bishop Amat routed Hesperia. Here’s the report.
Palisades’ OJ Popoola, right, grabs an offensive rebound during Palisades’ 75-56 win over Cleveland in the City Section Open Division championship game on Feb. 27, 2026.
(Steve Galluzzo / For The Times)
Palisades won the City Section Open Division boys title, the first upper division title for the Dolphins since 1969. Here’s the report.
State playoffs
The state basketball playoffs begin this week with regional action. The finals are March 13-14 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento. Here’s the link to pairings.
Sierra Canyon received the No. 1 seed for boys and girls in the Open Division. The teams will host a doubleheader Saturday night, with the boys hosting the winner of Santa Margarita-Redondo Union and girls playing Sage Hills. Redondo Union was once considered to be the strongest challenger to Sierra Canyon but was upset in the Open Division playoffs. That matchup of two pressing teams would be quite interesting if Redondo Union can get past Santa Margarita.
Harvard-Westiake boys will host the winner of Sherman Oaks Notre Dame at Santa Maria St. Joseph on Saturday. The top girls game will take place Saturday matching Etiwanda at Ontario Christian.
Division 1 boys looks like a strong 16-team field with La Mirada seeded No. 1 and hosting Mater Dei on Tuesday.
Baseball
Star center fielder Anthony Murphy of Corona has added closing duties this season. The Panthers are 4-0.
(Nick Koza)
Last season, Corona had as its closer shortstop Billy Carlson, who became a first-round draft pick. This season, center fielder Anthony Murphy has taken over as a closer, throwing 92 mph fastball for the 4-0 Panthers.
No. 1 St. John Bosco and No. 2 Orange Lutheran began their seasons with shutouts relying on their aces, Julian Garcia and Gary Morse, respectively.
Oaks Christian won the Easton tournament championship and is 5-0. The Sheffer brothers, Carson and Ryan, have been performing well.
Sherman Oaks Notre Dame is 4-0 and getting strong hitting from catcher Jacob Madrid, who had two home runs in a win over El Dorado. James Tronstein of Harvard-Westlake has seven hits in 10 at-bats.
El Segundo has several players off the 2023 El Segundo Little League championshp team making major contributions during its 4-0 start. Logan Brooks, the older brother of Loyola freshman Brody Brooks, has 10 RBIs.
Here’s this week’s top 25 rankings by The Times.
Softball
No. 1-ranked Norco is 4-0 behind its two college-bound pitchers, Coral Williams and Parker May.
Oaks Christian has started 6-0 and picked up wins over Huntington Beach and Mater Dei last week.
Granada Hills, one of the top teams in the City Section, will be tested this week with games against Sierra Canyon and Oaks Christian.
Track and field
Servite’s 4 x 100 relay team ran the second-fast time in state history at 40.05 in a stunning display of speed for this early in the track season at the Mustang Roundup at Trabuco Hills. The team was made up of Jorden Wells, Benjamin Harris, Kamil Pelovello and Jace Wells.
Maximo Zavaleta of King ran the 3,200 in 9:07.81 and the 1,600 in 4:09.86. Harris won the 100 in 10.46. Pelovello ran the 200 in 21.19.
Rosary’s girls 4 x 100 relay team won in 45.96 seconds. Maliyah Collins, a sophomore at Rosary, won the 100 in 11.77 and the 200 in 24.13
Soccer
El Camino Real’s boys soccer team celebrates winning the City Section Open Division title for a second consecutive season.
(Eliza Lotterstein)
Rivals El Camino Real and Birmingham had another dramatic City Section Open Division boys final, with El Camino Real winning on penalty kicks. Here’s the report. Cleveland won the girls Open Division championship over Granada Hills.
Mater Dei boys and Santa Margarita girls won Southern Section championships in the Open Division.
The regional playoffs begin Tuesday with the first state championships taking place March 13-14 in Sacramento.
Here are the pairings.
Here’s the complete championship scores.
Soccer fiasco
To say the City Section soccer playoffs were a mess would be an understatement.
Six teams were removed from the playoffs via forfeits for having ineligible players who broke CIF rule 600 by playing in an outside competition during their season. The Southern Section had one school forfeit in its playoffs, Calabasas, in Division 3, allowing Los Alamitos to be named champion.
Here’s the rundown.
A shoutout for turning in cheaters
Let’s hear it for the snitches, informers, tattletales.
If the issues in high school sports are ever going to be fixed, then cheaters need to be exposed.
Here’s a look at what’s wrong and what’s right in coming forward.
Robert Garrett still waits
From 2011, longtime Crenshaw football coach Robert Garrett talks to De’Anthony Thomas, one of his best former players.
(Robert S. Helfman)
The mysterious absence of Crenshaw football coach Robert Garrett continues. The winningest coach in City Section history with 300 victories was put on administrative leave last August on the eve of the team’s season opener. March marks the eighth month of no action on his case. He sits at home, checks in on his computer, receives full pay and waits.
Here’s a look at his predicament in the Los Angeles Unified School District.
Notes . . .
At the state wrestling championships, among the winners was Birmingham’s Slava Shahbazyan at 165 and two St. John Bosco wrestlers, Jesse Grajeda at144 pounds and Michael Romero at 150 pounds. Here’s the link to complete results. . . .
Chris Williams is the new football coach at Covina. He was head coach at Diamond Ranch. . . .
Ed Hematsiraki, 21, is the new boys basketball coach at Glendale High. . . .
Jeff Bailey has left Yorba Linda after 16 years as football coach and two Southern Section titles to become head coach at Beverly Hills, which was 0-9 last season. He’ll be making $205,000 a year. Here’s the report. . . . .
Scott Dodge is the new boys basketball coach at Godinez. . . .
Troy has opening for boys basketball coach. . . .
Will Burr is out at Harvard-Westlake after just one season as girls basketball coach. . . .
Anthony Jackson, who had a successful nine-year run as head football coach at Los Angeles High, is the new head coach at South East. . . .
Greg Fontenette has resigned as boys basketball coach at Valencia. . . .
Tara Davis-Woodhall, an Olympic track and field champion from Agoura who sponsored the school’s invitational Saturday, announced she was making a $100,000 donation to the track and field program. . . .
Freshman golfer William Hudson of St. John Bosco won the Servite Invitational. Here’s the report.
From the archives: Marques Johnson
One of the greatest former City Section high school basketball players, Marques Johnson, celebrated his 70th birthday with his annual dunk. The former Crenshaw High and UCLA player is a beloved basketball legend from Los Angeles. He has a daughter playing basketball for Windward.
He just finished a new book, “Crenshaw Chronicles.”
He was inducted into the City Section sports Hall of Fame in 2013.
His call on radio when UCLA’s Tyus Edney scored on a layup in 1995 during the Bruins’ title run and he yelled, “Yeah baby!” remains something UCLA fans never forget.
Recommendations
From ESPN, a story about the growing concern about street agents in the high school NIL business.
From SI.com, a story on a high school basketball team in Arizona being removed from the playoffs for racial taunts by its fans.
From the Daily Pilot, a story on Sage Hill girls basketball.
Tweets you might have missed
Until next time….
Have a question, comment or something you’d like to see in a future Prep Rally newsletter? Email me at eric.sondheimer@latimes.com, and follow me on Twitter at @latsondheimer.
Did you get this newsletter forwarded to you? To sign up and get it in your inbox, click here.
Gas prices soar as QatarEnergy halts LNG production after Iran attacks | Energy News
Qatar’s state-run energy firm says it has halted liquefied natural gas production after Iranian attacks, sending gas prices soaring in Europe, as Saudi Arabia announced it was temporarily shutting down some units of the Ras Tanura oil refinery located near the country’s eastern region after a fire broke out following a drone attack.
“Due to military attacks on QatarEnergy’s operating facilities in Ras Laffan Industrial City and Mesaieed Industrial City in the State of Qatar, QatarEnergy has ceased production of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and associated products,” the world’s largest LNG producer said in a statement on Monday.
Recommended Stories
list of 3 itemsend of list
Shortly after the announcement, natural gas prices in Europe soared by almost 50 percent.
Earlier, Qatar’s Defence Ministry said the country was attacked by two drones launched from Iran. “One drone targeted a water tank belonging to a power plant in Mesaieed, and the other targeted an energy facility in Ras Laffan Industrial City, belonging to QatarEnergy, without reporting any human casualties,” it said in a statement.
“All damages and losses resulting from the attack will be assessed by the relevant authorities, and an official statement will be issued later,” it added.
The Saudi Ministry of Defence, in reports carried by the state-run Saudi Press Agency (SPA), said two drones had “attempted to attack” the Ras Tanura refinery on Monday morning, and that a “small” fire had broken out after they were intercepted.
Footage verified by Al Jazeera showed plumes of smoke rising from the oil facility, located on Saudi Arabia’s Gulf coast. The ministry said the refinery “sustained limited damage”, but there were no casualties.
Ras Tanura oil refinery, one of the world’s largest oil processing facilities located near the eastern city of Dammam, has a capacity of 550,000 barrels per day. The facility is home to one of the largest refineries in the Middle East and is considered a cornerstone of the kingdom’s energy sector.
The attacks come as oil tankers have been piling up on either side of the Strait of Hormuz, through which about a fifth of the world’s seaborne oil and the bulk of Qatari gas flows.
The maritime disruptions and fears of a prolonged conflict have led to a sharp rise in global oil prices, which will have a significant impact on the global economy.
Iran has been launching retaliatory strikes, mainly targeting Israel and military facilities of the United States across the Middle East, after the US and Israel launched massive air strikes on the country.
In a statement published by SPA, the Saudi Ministry of Energy said some operations had been halted as a “precautionary measure” and that it did not foresee “any impact on the supply of petroleum products to local markets”.
Saudi Arabia had earlier said it would “take all necessary measures to defend its security and protect its territory, citizens, and residents, including the option of responding to the aggression” after Iran targeted the capital Riyadh and the country’s eastern region with strikes over the weekend.
The US, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates issued a joint statement on Sunday condemning Iranian attacks across the region and affirming their right to self-defence.
Rob Geist Pinfold, lecturer in defence studies at King’s College London, told Al Jazeera that Iran “knows exactly what it’s doing” by attacking the Gulf countries.
“These countries have less of an appetite for a fight because, at the end of the day, this is not their war. So, Iran is banking that they will want a ceasefire as soon as possible, that they will be pressuring the Trump administration. But we have no signs of that whatsoever so far,” he said.
Pinfold added that there seems to be a “show of force” and “of unity” coming from the Gulf states, at least rhetorically.
“They’re trying to get the message across that they are one and that they are united and that they are resilient,” Pinfold said. “But under the surface, there are profound disagreements here about how to engage with Iran and whether to engage with Iran at all.”
Reflecting on Six Years of Conflict Reporting in Africa
Every March 2, HumAngle Media marks its anniversary. This year, the award-winning newsroom turns six, a milestone for a publication that has dedicated itself to covering conflict, humanitarian crises, and development challenges across Africa.
This year’s anniversary is marked by reflection and knowledge-sharing activities. On Monday, award-winning Irish investigative journalist Sally Hayden attended HumAngle’s editorial meeting, where she met the newsroom team. During the session, she described herself as “a big follower of the work” and added, “I’m star-struck,” expressing admiration for the organisation’s impact and growth over the years.
Founded in March 2020 by Ahmad Salkida, HumAngle was born out of a determination to report on conflict and terrorism with nuance, depth, and humanity. Over the years, Ahmad’s work – and that of the newsroom he built – has shaped both local and global understanding of crises across Nigeria and the wider Lake Chad region.
“HumAngle stands as one of the most consequential media institutions covering conflict, displacement, extremism, governance failures, and community resilience in Nigeria and the Lake Chad Basin,” he said.
From the outset, the newsroom set itself apart by centring people rather than power. Its investigations and analyses prioritise lived experiences, while holding authorities accountable. Through solutions journalism, HumAngle not only documents harm but also explores pathways to peacebuilding and conflict resolution across the continent.
A HumAngle investigation on the social media interactions fuelling the ethno-religious violence crisis in Plateau State, North Central Nigeria, was recently shortlisted in the Outstanding Contribution to Peace Category of the 2025 Festisov Journalism Awards.
For the editorial team, the past six years have been defined by innovation, resilience, impact, creativity, and challenge.
Mansir Muhammed, Senior Specialist in GIS, open-source intelligence, and emerging technology, describes the journey as deeply impactful. In 2023, he collaborated with HumAngle’s former investigations editor, Kunle Adebajo, on an investigation that uncovered mass graves in Nigeria’s North East.
“We had access to knowledgeable fixers who took our reporter close to these scenes. We then took pictures and collected supplementary information. We further probed the coordinates using open-source intelligence and geospatial tools, including satellite imagery and data, alongside contextual information,” Mansir wrote in a reporter’s diary.
The investigation went on to win the Sigma Award for Outstanding Data Journalism in 2024, a recognition of the newsroom’s growing strength in digital and data-driven reporting.
“The award showcases the kind of work we have been doing with digital journalism and geographic information systems,” he said. He urged the public to look out for more innovations and impressive output from the newsroom.
The Sigma Award is only one of several recognitions HumAngle investigations have received. Beyond accolades, however, the team points to something more important: measurable impact on communities whose stories might otherwise have gone unheard.
Most recently, an investigation by Hauwa Shaffii Nuhu, the Managing Editor, won the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Media Africa Award. The story explored the life of Modu Bakura, a 30-year-old resident of Bama, northeastern Nigeria, whose house was robbed in 2022, his wife killed, and his source of livelihood taken away.
In its citation, the jury reflected on the story’s lasting power:
“There are some stories, even great stories, that one reads and immediately forgets. And then there are the stories that stay with you, that you think about days, weeks or even months later. Hauwa Shaffii Nuhu’s fascinating and heartbreaking profile of Modu Baraka – a trader in northeastern Nigeria whose life was unravelled by a robbery – is in the latter category.”
For Ibrahim Adeyemi, Investigations Editor, HumAngle’s defining feature is its editorial culture.
“We don’t tell basic stories. We ask critical questions which make our work distinct,” he said, adding that the most interesting thing about working with HumAngle is that every reporter is encouraged to think like an investigative journalist: to dig deeper, question assumptions, and follow evidence wherever it leads.
That philosophy has culminated in the development of the HumAngle Investigations Handbook, a practical guide designed to support reporters in producing rigorous, groundbreaking work.
Innovation at HumAngle extends beyond investigations.
“I’m proud to say that HumAngle is six. It’s been really fun watching HumAngle grow,” said Damilola Lawal, Creative and Innovation Manager at HumAngle. Working across animation, multimedia, motion graphics, and virtual reality, she has helped shape the newsroom’s visual and immersive storytelling. She describes her work as exciting.
Looking ahead, she plans to push those boundaries even further. “I’m going to be diving into immersive storytelling and also look at creative and impressive ways that we can apply virtual reality,” she noted.
HumAngle’s sixth anniversary will be marked with a week-long programme of activities, including editorial sessions and workshops with Sally Hayden. The sessions are aimed at strengthening capacity, refining processes, and scaling impact.
In the years ahead, HumAngle plans to expand its investigative and storytelling capacity, strengthen digital security and newsroom resilience, and broaden its fellowships and capacity-building initiatives. Ahmad said that HumAngle remains committed to documenting Africa’s most complex conflicts, not only with rigour and courage, but with empathy, accountability, and an unwavering belief in journalism’s power to serve the public good.
HumAngle Media celebrated its sixth anniversary, marking its dedication to conflict, humanitarian, and developmental stories in Africa.
Founded in 2020 by Ahmad Salkida, the platform emphasizes people-centered reporting with solutions journalism, which holds authorities accountable while exploring peace pathways.
The newsroom, known for its investigative depth, was recently acknowledged with prestigious journalism awards. Notable works include investigations on ethno-religious violence and mass graves, showcasing their expertise in digital and data-driven reporting.
The anniversary aligns with reflection and innovation, with editorial meetings featuring Sally Hayden.
HumAngle plans to expand its investigative efforts, enhance digital security, and build on creative storytelling techniques like virtual reality, maintaining its mission to document Africa’s complex conflicts with empathy and rigor.
Suzi Quatro, 75, reveals first husband & father of her children has Alzheimer’s and she’s now in charge of his finances
SUZI Quatro has revealed how her first husband, and the father of her children, has Alzheimer’s and that she’s now in charge of his finances.
The American rock star, 75, who is now married to her second husband Rainer Hass, revealed the sad news whilst speaking to Kaye Adams.
Michigan-born Suzi, who is credited with helping women break into the world of rock and roll music, opened up on the Loose Women star’s podcast, How To be 60.
In a candid interview, the singer talked about how her first husband Len Tuckey is battling Alzheimer’s Disease.
Suzi married Len, who was her long-time guitarist, in 1976, but they divorced in 1992.
During their relationship they had two children together, Laura, 44, and Richard, 42.
Speaking to Kaye’s podcast, Suzi, who is now married to her second husband Rainer who she wed in 1993, talked about the breakdown of her first marriage to Len.
She then talked about how despite their divorce they remained good friends, and how she became his “power of attorney” because of his Alzheimer’s diagnosis.
Suzi made the admission when she talked about when she decided to leave Len, and how she came about that decision.
“When I did leave, I was sure. I wasn’t doubting. I was sure that it’s time to go,” she revealed to Kaye.
“So I gave it the six years to turn it around. You know, that’s fair.
“You got two kids together, you know. Don’t break it up if you don’t need to. I really tried, but I can’t lie to myself. Nobody can lie to themselves.”
Continuing Suzi said: “I remember saying to him one time during Andy Get Your Gun, actually when that had finished, so it would have been 87, I remember we were sitting in the room here talking. And I said to him, ‘Do you realise how far away you’ve let me go?’
“So I gave him hints along the way, many, many hints, but he didn’t take them.
“And I’m his executor and power of attorney, so we’re still close.
“And he lives in my son’s house because he’s got Alzheimer’s.”
American singer-songwriter Suzi shot to fame in the 70s as the first female bass player to became a major rock star.
The star is known for singles like Can the Can and Your Mamma Won’t Like Me, and has sold more than 50 million albums.
She is credited with helping women become part of the rock and roll era.
Speaking about this, Suzi once told the Metro Times: “Before I did what I did, we didn’t have a place in rock ‘n’ roll.
What are the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease?
IN the early stages, the main symptom of Alzheimer’s disease is memory lapses.
For example, someone may:
- forget about recent conversations or events
- misplace items
- forget the names of places and objects
- have trouble thinking of the right word
- ask questions repetitively
- show poor judgement or find it harder to make decisions
- become less flexible and more hesitant to try new things
There are often also signs of mood changes, such as increasing anxiety or agitation, or periods of confusion.
And trouble with language, thinking and reasoning difficulties, and a shift in how things are seen and heard are also common.
Source: The NHS
“Not really. You had your Grace Slick and all that, but that’s not what I did. I was the first to be taken seriously as a female rock ‘n’ roll musician and singer.
“That hadn’t been done before. I played the boys at their own game.
“For everybody that came afterward, it was a little bit easier, which is good.
“I’m proud of that. If I have a legacy, that’s what it is. It’s nothing I take lightly. It was gonna happen sooner or later.”
Over the years Suzi has also dabbled in acting, and was famously on Happy Days.
Persistent Champion of Choice : Women: Nineteen years after Roe v. Wade, attorney Sarah Weddington is speaking out about her role in the case and her own abortion.
AUSTIN, Tex. — The lobby walls of the Driskill Hotel are hung with the portraits of figures of Texas political lore, men like Sam Houston and William B. Travis of Alamo fame. But on a rainy evening, a rather demure-looking woman in a conservative black suit and tidy tucked hairdo is the center of attention.
First, Texas Democratic Party chairman Bob Slagle comes up to hug and say hello. They chat briefly about how well things are going in the presidential campaign.
Then two young women walk by, one whispering to the other, “Is that Sarah Weddington?” They turn back and stop to introduce themselves. As the two say goodby, one adds: “Of course, it goes without saying how much I admire you.”
Weddington is used to this by now. The 46-year-old lawyer gained fame from her first case, Roe v. Wade, the landmark 1972 Supreme Court decision.
Since then, Weddington has spent almost two decades advocating abortion rights. Today, she has been in her adopted hometown of Austin signing copies of her new book, “A Question of Choice: The Lawyer Who Won Roe v. Wade,” for a parade of admirers. Longtime friends presented many of the almost 500 copies she signs; young women like the two who paused to thank her offered others.
Weddington stood for more than five hours at a podium, first at a university bookstore and later in the hotel ballroom, signing in a consistently elegant hand. Everyone is greeted with a smile, some with hugs. An aura of restraint surrounds her, an almost Victorian quality in a woman some see as a sort of virago, a demon of the left who has led the charge for legalized abortion.
Some friends describe her as “ladylike”; almost all say she is very private.
And yet her book begins with a revelation that she had kept a very personal secret. In 1967, while a young, unmarried law student at the University of Texas, this daughter of a minister and graduate of a small Methodist college, traveled to “a dirty Mexican border town to have an abortion, fleeing the law that made abortion illegal in Texas.”
She was accompanied by her then-boyfriend and later husband, fellow law student Ron Weddington. Divorced amicably in 1974, they kept the secret until the publication of the book. “I am a very private person and would never have talked about this if I hadn’t felt that I wanted to do everything I could to help win it again. That I can’t win it in the courts, nobody can. That’s where we have to win is at the ballot box. And it was like I had to give it everything I had and it was the one thing I had never given. . . .
“My own thoughts about it are that if I had to write a caption it would be ‘giving up privacy in order to save it.’ I feel like I’m giving something very precious up and that is the ability to live my life in privacy. . . . We always had an agreement not to talk about this without talking to the other, and he (her former husband) always observed it.”
Journalist Linda Ellerbee, a friend and fellow Texan, suggested that Weddington humanize her book to make it more accessible to readers. The first draft, Weddington acknowledges, was long and perhaps too legalistic: “First, I wanted to write the perfect book, and I couldn’t write that book. Then someone said, ‘Why don’t you practice writing the book,’ and I could do that because I was freeing myself.”
Weddington admits that a more likely publication date would have been 1993, the 20th anniversary of Roe v. Wade. But in the last few years, it became increasingly obvious to her that the landmark decision was in jeopardy: “In the book, I say if anybody had said to me in 1969 or 1973, ‘You will still be talking about this in 1992,’ I would have thought they were crazy.”
As president of the National Abortion Rights Action League, she had witnessed the first skirmishes of what she calls a war of attrition during the early years of the Reagan presidency. But at that point, she says, “We still had the trump card, the Supreme Court.”
Reagan, who she notes signed California’s liberal 1967 abortion law, then began to make conservative appointments to the high court. And at that point, Weddington says, “I began to say I was for mandatory life support systems for older justices.”
The 1989, Webster v. Reproductive Health Services decision was the real turning point, she says, and now she sees the battle lines on three fronts: the Supreme Court, the Congress, which is considering the Freedom of Choice Bill, and state legislatures.
Her book’s publication, just two months before the fall election, is no accident. President Bush, she says, made “a pact with the radical right” in 1988, and abortion-rights advocates cannot risk more of his court appointments: “The sands of time ran out when Clarence Thomas was confirmed.”
Weddington says Bill Clinton would sign the Freedom of Choice Act. But even a Clinton victory will not persuade her to sit back and say the fight is over. The Arkansas governor has supported some restrictions, as Weddington describes them, particularly regarding abortions for minors. “We are trying to educate him; it’s not a natural,” she says. “I don’t think you can elect Clinton and say, ‘Well, let’s forget about that.’ ”
For this activist lawyer, who drew her strength from the women’s movement in the late ‘60s and early ‘70s, the fight is not over on other fronts, either. She sees a need to engage the younger generation and to remind Americans why Roe was so important.
“Intellectually, they believe that choice should be available, but emotionally, they have never known what it was like for it not to be,” Weddington says of younger Americans. “You can’t expect them to have the same emotional memories and commitments, and yet I don’t think you can preach to them.”
The book’s final section is a call to arms, a detailed plan for action that gives Roe defenders a game plan. Weddington expects the fight to continue well into the next century and plans to continue the battle.
“I think this issue is so basic you can’t desert it, and while it’s in trouble, you’ve got to keep plugging,” she says. “I see a new group of people who haven’t been as active, but I think they will be more comfortable with a broader focus.” That focus, she says, should include family issues and support for birth control programs.
*
In one sense, Weddington admits, her career peaked at age 27 when she stood before the U.S. Supreme Court and argued her case for a woman’s right to choose. But the legal fight that began at a garage sale fund-raiser in 1969 and culminated in Roe–and her subsequent service as a special assistant on women’s issues in the Carter White House–was heady stuff for a young woman from Abilene.
She also served as one of the first women in the Texas House of Representatives (1973-1977) and was frequently mentioned as a candidate for statewide office, long before Ann Richards, her former legislative aide, won the governor’s race. Privately, a few friends admit that the stellar political career has passed Weddington by.
Elective office is not likely at this point. “I have a question whether the price is worth it,” she says. “There’s no money, and everybody is in a sour mood. When I ran, I ran to do something, and right now I don’t see that you can do that much. . . .”
For her beliefs, Weddington has paid a high personal price. She is dogged by activists opposed to abortion. At the Austin bookstore signing, several security guards were on hand.
But Roe v. Wade has also given Weddington opportunities to spread her message. For several years, she and Phyllis Schafly toured on a sort of abortion cross-fire show. Apart from not sharing the same views, they never even shared the same car. “We once tried to find something to talk about, and the only thing we agreed on was airplane coffee was usually bad,” Weddington says.
Now, Weddington plans to continue to teach part time at the University of Texas, speak around the country and ready herself for the barrage of publicity next year on the 20th anniversary of Roe. Should Clinton be elected, she would not mind serving as an adviser, but she would not want to have a full-time position in Washington. And she would like to write another book or two.
Not the least of her contributions is the impact Weddington has had on young people, particularly women. Time after time, during her Austin book signing, women in their 20s approach her, say that they had heard her speak before and tell her that she has changed their lives.
And at the last minute, three young women dash in from the rain and ask Weddington to sign their books. All three are recent graduates of the University of Texas law school and all three are Texas Supreme Court clerks. When Weddington asks how many women are in their law class, they say about 150.
Weddington smiles and says there were five when she graduated 24 years ago.
Birmingham’s Slava Shahbazyan celebrates state wrestling title
Three years ago, as a 14-year-old freshman, Slava Shahbazyan made it to Bakersfield for the state wrestling championships.
“It was good to get experience that young,” he said.
Then came Saturday night when he had a breakthrough moment, winning the state 165-pound championship as a 17-year-old senior for Birmingham High.
“It means everything to me,” he said. “It took four years.”
Shahbazyan, who transferred from Chaminade after his sophomore year, is set to attend Stanford and still in the hunt to be valedictorian at Birmingham. Coach Jimmy Medeiros said he was close to winning last season before finishing fourth.
“He got a lot better,” Medeiros said.
Shahbazyan has been wrestling since he was 8. “My father loves wrestling,” he said.
Two St. John Bosco wrestlers, Jesse Grajeda at 144 pounds and Michael Romero at 150 pounds, also won state titles.
Here’s the link to complete results.
This is a daily look at the positive happenings in high school sports. To submit any news, please email eric.sondheimer@latimes.com.
Belgium seizes Russian shadow fleet oil tanker in North Sea
March 2 (UPI) — Belgium has seized a Russian oil tanker believed to be part of a shadow fleet of vessels the Kremlin uses to sell its energy products blocked by sanctions, Belgium’s defense minister said.
The armed forces of the European nation, with the support of French navy helicopters, boarded the oil tanker in the North Sea over the weekend, Defense Minister Theo Francken said in a statement.
The vessel was being escorted to the Belgian port city of Zeebrugge where it would be seized by authorities, he said.
French President Emmanuel Macron, who announced that French helicopters were used in Operation Blue Intruder, published a 23-second video online of clips from the night siege edited together, showing soldiers rappelling down ropes from a helicopter to the vessel’s deck.
Macron described the mission as having dealt “a major blow to the shadow fleet.”
“Europeans are determined to cut off the sources of funding for Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine by enforcing sanctions,” he said.
The vessel was identified by Belgian federal prosecutors as the Guinean flag-flying Ethera. The federal prosecutor’s office said it has opened an investigation into potential violations of the Belgian Navigation Code.
The office said an on-board inspection confirmed evidence of a “false flag,” public broadcaster RTBF reported, which said the operation was conducted over Saturday night and into Sunday morning.
The vessel had departed the Moroccan west coast port city of Mohammedia on Feb. 21 and arrived in Zeebrugge on Sunday morning, according to Marinetraffic.com.
British, European and U.S. governments had all previously sanctioned the vessel.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said despite its repeated blacklisting, Ethera continued to illegally transport Russian oil with the use of a false flag and forged documents.
“We welcome this strong action against Moscow’s floating purse and thank France for supporting the operation,” he said in a social media statement.
“We must be resolute. Russia operates like a mafia organization, and the response must match that reality,” he continued, calling for modern European laws permitting tankers carrying Moscow oil to be seized and its oil repurposed for Europe’s security.
“If they reject the rules for the sake of war, the rules must foresee a clear and firm answer.”
The seizure comes as Europe has been targeting Russia’s shadow fleet of vessels to further increase the impact of sanctions.
Western allies have imposed thousands of sanctions on Russia over its four-year invasion of Ukraine. It is now the most blacklisted in the world.
Oil is a significant revenue source for the Kremlin, and Ukraine’s allies are trying to hinder is ability to pay for its war.
This shadow fleet consists of between 600 and 2,500 ships, according to an October 2025 document from the European Union. An S&P Global report from the month before estimated the fleet consisted of 978 tankers alone. Meanwhile, a Brookings report estimated the fleet comprised 343 tankers, though stating its true scope is likely far larger.
With the seizure, Belgium is the second European nation to detain a tanker of Russia’s shadow fleet. France became the first in January when its forces seized the Grinch oil tanker.
Share a tip on an unsung discovery in a UK national park or nature reserve | Travel
This year marks the 75th anniversary of the Peak District national park – the first designated national park in the UK. That number has grown to 15 across the UK, alongside more than 200 national nature reserves, which are designed to protect specific landscapes and habitats. Whether it’s boating through the Norfolk Broads national park, birdwatching on Lindisfarne national nature reserve, or camping in the Cairngorms, we’d love to hear about your favourite things to do and places to visit in our national parks and reserves.
The best tip of the week, chosen by Tom Hall of Lonely Planet wins a £200 voucher to stay at a Coolstays property – the company has more than 3,000 worldwide. The best tips will appear in the Guardian Travel section and website.
Keep your tip to about 100 words
If you have a relevant photo, do send it in – but it’s your words we will be judging for the competition.
We’re sorry, but for legal reasons you must be a UK resident to enter this competition.
The competition closes on Monday 9 March at 10am GMT
Have a look at our past winners and other tips
Read the terms and conditions here
Share your tip
Share your travel tip using the form below.
Your responses, which can be anonymous, are secure as the form is encrypted and only the Guardian has access to your contributions. We will only use the data you provide us for the purpose of the feature and we will delete any personal data when we no longer require it for this purpose. For alternative ways to get in touch securely please see our tips guide.
If you’re having trouble using the form click here. Read terms of service here and privacy policy here.
Butlin’s reveals huge 90th birthday party this spring with family holidays from £188
FOR 90 years, Butlin’s has been a go-to seaside holiday destination in the UK and next month it is having a huge celebration.
Across all three Butlin’s resorts this Easter, there will be celebrations for the brand’s 90th birthday.
Bognor Regis, Minehead and Skegness Butlin’s sites there will all be hosting a three-night event starting on April 10.
The event will include shows and activities exclusive to the three-day break.
For example, on April 11, guests can watch a firework and laser display, which will start at 7:36pm exactly to commemorate the year that the Lincolnshire resort first opened.
The fireworks display will be hosted by the Redcoats, alongside Billy and Bonnie – the official mascot bears – and then there will be a nine-minute show lighting up the skies – a minute for each decade Butlin’s has been open.
Read more on travel inspo
In addition, there will be a new Birthday Party Bingo with themed games, party dances and even a ‘special moment’ when the number 90 is called out.
Any guests who happen to be celebrating their own birthday over the weekend will also get a ‘special moment’.
The Birthday Party Bingo will also be a part of the programme for all breaks for the remainder of 2026.
The Skyline Gang, Sarakasi All Stars and the Redcoats will all perform on the Skyline Pavilion Stage in the Party In The Skyline show as well.
There’s even a special ‘Birthday Bonanza’ cocktail that has been created for Butlin’s’ birthday, with a mix of vodka, amaretto and Coca-Cola.
The three-night birthday break starts from £188 for the Minehead site, £214 for the Skegness site (the original destination) and from £283 for the Bognor Regis resort.
The birthday breaks also include Butlin’s Easter entertainment which includes The Masked Singer and Maximum Pro Wrestling.
And of course, you get the usual access to the Splash Waterworld pools, fairground rides and the soft play centres.
Mike Godolphin, Butlin’s entertainment director, said: “No one does it bigger and better than Butlin’s, and we’ve been proudly doing it for 90 years.
“A milestone this special deserves a Butlin’s style celebration to match.
“From the spectacular firework and laser display and incredible entertainment across the weekend, we can’t wait to celebrate with everyone across the three resorts.
“This weekend is not only dedicated to the memories made over the last nine decades at our resorts.
“We’re also looking to the future, and all the special moments that will be made at Butlin’s in the next 90 years.”
To celebrate its 90th birthday, Butlin’s is also looking for the ultimate Butlin’s family to give away a break in Skegness.
To enter, you’ll need to go to Butlin’s social pages and show why you should be crowned the winner.
Book a stay at Butlin’s
BUTLIN’S offers different breaks across its resorts, here are some of the top offers at the moment:
A three-night stay at Butlin’s Minehead for the April 10-13, Easter 90th Birthday Break featuring Masked Singer and Maximum Pro Wrestling, costs from £169 for a family of four staying in a Comfort Room. Or from £343.08, if you wanted to upgrade the package to include the food court dining plan. Book here.
A three-night stay at Butlin’s Skegness for the April 10-13, Easter 90th Birthday Break featuring Masked Singer and Maximum Pro Wrestling, costs from £214 for a family of four staying in a Comfort Room. Or from £388.08, if you wanted to upgrade the package to include the food court dining plan. Book here.
A four-night stay at Butlin’s Skegness from April 27 for a Showtime Midweek Break featuring Fireman Sam, costs from £37.80 for a family of four staying in a Comfort Room. Or from £236.76, if you wanted to upgrade the package to include the food court dining plan. Book here.
A three-night stay at Butlin’s Minehead from June 26 for a Showtime Weekend Break featuring Animals and Mythical Beasts, costs from £175 for a family of four staying in a Comfort Room. Or £349.08, if you wanted to upgrade the package to include the food court dining plan. Book here.
*If you click on a link in this story, we will earn affiliate revenue.
In other holiday resort news, thousands of new £9.50 holidays on sale this weekend – join Sun Club for early access.
Plus, the epic French holiday resort you can get to by ferry with kids club and laid back vibes.