warns

The Middle East conflict risks adding a staggering 45 million to acute hunger levels, warns the UN’s World Food Programme.

Tens of millions more people will face acute hunger if the United States-Israel war on Iran, and its reverberations through Iran’s retaliation, continue through to June, the United Nations warned.

“If the Middle East conflict continues through June, an additional 45 million people could be pushed into acute hunger by price rises,” Carl Skau, the deputy executive director of the UN’s World Food Programme (WFP), said on Tuesday.

“This would take global hunger levels to an all-time record, and it’s a terrible, terrible prospect,” Skau said, with 319 million people, already a historic high, currently acutely food insecure.

The US-Israeli attacks on Iran that began on February 28 have choked up key humanitarian aid routes, delaying life-saving shipments to some of the world’s worst crises.

Skau said shipping costs are up 18 percent since the war began and that some have had to be rerouted.

The extra costs come on top of deep spending cuts by the WFP, as donors focus more on defence, he added.

Hunger crises in Gaza, Sudan

In Gaza, residents are rushing to stockpile dwindling goods as border closures and the Iran war further strain already fragile supplies, with shortages worsening across the besieged enclave as Israel presses on with its genocidal war there.

Israel is set to partially reopen Gaza’s Rafah crossing with Egypt on Wednesday, ending a two-week shutdown that has deepened an already catastrophic humanitarian crisis in the decimated territory.

Israel shut the crossing the same day it and the US launched strikes on Iran, citing “security” reasons.

The World Health Organization’s regional director for the Eastern Mediterranean warned last week that only about 200 trucks a day were entering Gaza, far short of the estimated daily requirement of 600.

Meanwhile, more than 21 million people in Sudan, nearly half of the population, face acute hunger. Famine has been confirmed in areas where months of fighting have made access for aid workers largely impossible.

In January, the UN warned that aid to Sudan could run out within months unless hundreds of millions of additional dollars are pledged.

Three years of brutal war between the military government and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces have killed tens of thousands of people and displaced 14 million.

Islamabad hits Kandahar facility after Taliban drones strike civilian areas and military sites as conflict intensifies.

Pakistan has carried out strikes on an Afghan military facility in Kandahar after Taliban drones targeted civilian areas and military installations across the country.

The strikes on Saturday came after Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari condemned the overnight drone attacks, warning Kabul it had “crossed a red line by attempting to target our civilians”.

Pakistan’s military said the drones, described as locally produced and rudimentary, were intercepted before reaching their targets, though falling debris wounded two children in Quetta and civilians in Kohat and Rawalpindi.

A security source told the AFP news agency that airspace around the capital, Islamabad, had been temporarily closed when the drones were detected.

Islamabad said the Kandahar facility had been used both to launch the drone attacks and as a base for cross-border rebel activity.

The exchange marks the sharpest single escalation yet in a conflict that has been building since late February, when Pakistan launched military operations against what it said were Pakistan Taliban fighters sheltering on Afghan soil.

Islamabad also accuses Kabul of harbouring fighters from the ISIL (ISIS) group’s Khorasan province affiliate.

The Taliban government has denied both charges.

The drone attacks followed Pakistani strikes on Kabul and eastern border provinces in Afghanistan overnight on Thursday into Friday. The Pakistani attacks killed four people in the capital, women and children among them, and two more in the east.

In the Pul-e-Charkhi neighbourhood of Kabul, one resident described being buried under rubble after his home was hit, saying he lay there believing it was his “last breath” before neighbours pulled him free.

A local representative told AFP that those killed were “ordinary people, poor people” with no involvement in the conflict.

Pakistani aircraft also struck a fuel depot belonging to the private airline Kam Air near Kandahar airport, which an airport official said supplied aid organisations, including the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross.

The official added that there were “no military installations” at the site.

Afghanistan’s Ministry of Defence claimed that its forces had captured a Pakistani border post and killed 14 soldiers.

Islamabad dismissed the assertion as baseless, with the prime minister’s spokesman accusing the Taliban of “weaving fantasies” rather than dismantling rebel networks on Afghan territory.

The UN mission in Afghanistan says at least 75 civilians have been killed and 193 injured since hostilities intensified on February 26, a toll that includes 24 children.

According to the UN refugee agency, about 115,000 people have been forced from their homes.

The crisis is unfolding as the wider region remains engulfed by the US-Israeli war with Iran, which began just two days after the Pakistan-Afghanistan clashes escalated.

Chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi has urged both sides to pursue dialogue, warning that further force would only deepen the crisis, though his appeal came as Pakistani jets were already in the air over Kandahar.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has been refreshing its travel advice for nations across the globe amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East, continuing to wreak havoc on international movement.

Beyond severely disrupting travel plans, the ongoing crisis is set to have far-reaching consequences for inflation, interest rates and commodity markets. British citizens have already been airlifted from Oman, the United Arab Emirates, and neighbouring regions, with Whitehall organising charter flights to repatriate nationals safely.

Those most at risk will receive priority booking on these evacuation flights, with the Foreign Office pledging to reach out to anyone who has registered their whereabouts in the affected zone, reports the Liverpool Echo.

In its guidance covering numerous Middle Eastern nations, the Foreign Office said: “Regional escalation poses significant security risks and has led to travel disruption. Stay away from areas around security or military facilities. Follow the instructions of the local authorities and monitor local and international media for the latest information.”

The advice went on: “If local authorities advise you to take shelter, stay indoors or move to the nearest safe building immediately. The greatest risk is from falling debris caused by intercepts, and you are safest inside a secure structure.

“Choose an interior stairwell or a room with as few external walls or windows as possible for additional protection.”

Political strife, natural calamities and safety issues are among the factors leading the UK Foreign Office to advise Brits against travelling to certain locations.

Afghanistan

Travel to Afghanistan is strongly discouraged. The security climate is unpredictable, with previous tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan resulting in violent skirmishes in border areas.

Travelling across Afghanistan poses extreme risks, and several border crossings are currently closed.

The likelihood of British nationals being detained in Afghanistan is significantly high. If you’re a Brit and find yourself detained in Afghanistan, you could be looking at a lengthy prison sentence spanning months or even years.

The FCDO’s capacity to assist you is severely restricted, and in-person support in Afghanistan is not feasible.

Belarus

The FCDO strongly advises against all travel to Belarus. If you’ve ever participated in activities now deemed illegal by the Belarusian regime, you run a substantial risk of arrest.

There’s also a minor risk that direct conflict related to the war in Ukraine could spill over into Belarus.

In the unlikely event of conflict breaking out, the FCDO’s ability to aid British nationals will be drastically limited. Ignoring advice from the FCDO could invalidate your travel insurance.

Burkina Faso

The FCDO advises against all travel to Burkina Faso due to the threat of terrorist attacks and kidnappings, coupled with the country’s unstable political situation.

There is no British Embassy in Burkina Faso and all consular support is provided from the British Embassy in Accra, Ghana. They cannot provide in-person assistance.

If there is serious violence, unrest or a deterioration in the security situation, it could be difficult to leave safely.

Haiti

The FCDO advises against all travel to Haiti owing to the unstable security situation. There are currently no British consular officials in Haiti and its ability to provide consular assistance is severely limited and cannot be delivered in person in Haiti.

If you choose to travel to or remain in Haiti against FCDO advice, attempt to avoid all crowds and public events, and take appropriate security precautions.

Iran

The FCDO advises against all travel to Iran. If you are a British national already in Iran, either resident or visitor, the Foreign Office said: “carefully consider your presence there and the risks you take by staying”.

British and British-Iranian dual nationals face significant risk of arrest, questioning or detention. Possessing a British passport or links to the UK can be reason enough for the Iranian authorities to detain you.

Iraq

The FCDO advises against all travel to Federal Iraq and the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. This is due to recent escalation in regional conflict.

There is significant risk of further escalation, and events are fast-moving and unpredictable. The Foreign Office said: “Regional escalation poses significant security risks and has led to travel disruption. The border crossing from Iraq into Kuwait is closed.

“British nationals wishing to cross into Kuwait must contact the British Embassy in Kuwait 24 hours in advance. The British Embassy will share names and passport details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs who will determine entry.”

Israel

The FCDO advises against all travel to Israel and Palestine: “Regional escalation poses significant security risks and has led to travel disruption. Stay away from areas around security or military facilities.”

Britons should inform the UK government of their presence in Israel, and register if they’re in the region for ongoing updates. You should adhere to instructions from local authorities and keep abreast of local and international media for the most current information.

Mali

The FCDO advises against all travel to Mali in its entirety owing to volatile security conditions. If you’re currently in Mali, you should depart “immediately” via commercial flight if you deem it safe to do so.

“The international airport in Bamako is open, and commercial flights are available. Do not try to leave Mali by overland routes to neighbouring countries as this is too dangerous. This is due to terrorist attacks along national highways.”

There remains a significant threat of abduction and criminal behaviour throughout Mali, including within the capital city of Bamako.

The Foreign Office warned: “If you choose to remain in Mali, you do so at your own risk. You should have a personal emergency plan that does not rely on the UK government.”

Niger

The FCDO advises against all travel to Niger. Officials said: “This is due to the rise of reported terrorist and criminal kidnappings of foreign nationals which have taken place this year in Niger. There is an ongoing risk of terrorist attacks throughout Niger including in the capital, Niamey.”

Support for British nationals is extremely limited in Niger. Assistance is delivered remotely from the British Deputy High Commission in Lagos.

Face-to-face help is unavailable. Should serious violence, civil unrest or a worsening security situation occur, departing safely could prove challenging.

Palestine

The FCDO advises against all travel to Israel and Palestine. UK citizens currently in the region should inform the Government of their whereabouts in Palestine and register their presence to receive ongoing updates.

Should you determine it’s safe to proceed and intend to use commercial departure options, verify the latest information from your airline or tour operator, alongside guidance from local authorities and the status of border crossings prior to travelling.

The Foreign Office cautioned: “The situation could escalate quickly and poses significant risks. Regional tensions may cause international borders (air and land) to close.”

Russia

The FCDO warns against all travel to Russia owing to the dangers and threats stemming from its ongoing invasion of Ukraine, including security incidents such as drone strikes and Russian air defence operations, a shortage of flights back to the UK, and restricted capacity for the UK government to offer assistance.

The Foreign Office said: “There is an increased risk of British nationals being detained in Russia, including if the Russian authorities suspect you of engaging in or supporting activities against Russian law, even if activities took place outside Russia.”

South Sudan

The FCDO warns against all travel to South Sudan due to the threat of armed violence and criminal activity.

“The political and security situation remains unpredictable. Political tensions are high and the security situation across the country could deteriorate rapidly and unpredictably.

“If the unstable security situation deteriorates, routes into and out of South Sudan may be blocked. Juba airport may close or be inaccessible. Flights may be cancelled at short notice.”

Syria

The FCDO warns against all travel to Syria owing to volatile security conditions and the risk of terrorist attacks. Consular support is unavailable from the British government within Syria.

The FCDO may learn of assistance offered by other organisations which can be shared with British nationals. Should you require help, contact the FCDO in London on +44 (0)20 7008 5000.

Yemen

The FCDO warns against all travel to Yemen in its entirety owing to unpredictable security conditions. The guidance states: “If you’re in Yemen, you should leave immediately.”

Assistance for British nationals is extremely restricted in Yemen. The British Embassy in Sana’a has suspended operations, with all diplomatic and consular personnel evacuated.

The UK government is unable to assist British citizens departing Yemen. No evacuation arrangements are currently in place.

Should you decide to stay in Yemen, you ought to keep movement around the country and within urban areas to a minimum, stay informed about changes in the local security landscape and observe other safety measures.

March 13 (Asia Today) — South Korea’s Unification Minister Chung Dong-young warned Friday that preparing for war could increase the likelihood of conflict on the Korean Peninsula, emphasizing that “peace itself is the path forward.”

Chung made the remarks during the third meeting of the Korean Peninsula Peace Strategy Advisory Group held at the Inter-Korean Talks Headquarters in Seoul.

“People often speak lightly of war and repeat the phrase that if you want peace, you must prepare for war,” Chung said. “But preparing for war only raises the chances of war.”

Chung also pointed to growing global instability, citing the upcoming U.S.-China summit and tensions related to the Iran crisis.

“The Korean Peninsula sits on unstable ground and tends to sway whenever global events shift,” he said.

Noting the global interconnectedness of security issues, Chung said the distance between Seoul and Tehran is about 6,700 kilometers but developments in the Middle East can still affect the Korean Peninsula.

“A war 6,700 kilometers away is shaking the Korean Peninsula,” he said, adding that the situation underscored the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the region.

Experts attending the meeting suggested that North Korea’s recently proposed “two-state theory” should be reinterpreted in light of current conditions.

They proposed linking it to the inter-Korean confederation stage of South Korea’s long-standing National Community Unification Plan and called for the creation of a new peace roadmap for the Korean Peninsula reflecting changing security dynamics.

Participants also urged the government to shift from a “pace-maker” role to a more proactive “peace-maker” role by expanding diplomatic engagement.

They recommended exploring multilateral approaches involving neighboring countries and international organizations in addition to dialogue between the United States and China.

— Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI

© Asia Today. Unauthorized reproduction or redistribution prohibited.

Original Korean report: https://www.asiatoday.co.kr/kn/view.php?key=20260313010004062

A United Nations fact-finding mission has concluded that “there are no indicators of structural reforms or change” to improve the human rights situation in Venezuela, despite the removal of its leader in January.

On Thursday, a member of the fact-finding mission, Maria Eloisa Quintero, delivered remarks (PDF) to the UN Human Rights Council questioning whether Venezuela’s leadership would face accountability for its record of human rights abuses.

She also pointed to ongoing abuses under the government of interim President Delcy Rodriguez, who was sworn into office on January 5.

“Civic and democratic space remains severely restricted. Civil society organizations, the few remaining independent media outlets, and political actors continue to face attacks, harassment or intimidation,” Quintero wrote in her statement.

“The prospects for full guarantees necessary for free and democratic elections remain remote.”

All told, the fact-finding mission found that at least 87 people have been detained since January.

Fourteen of them were journalists who were temporarily taken into custody while covering Rodriguez’s inauguration, and another 27 were reportedly arrested for celebrating the fall of Rodriguez’s predecessor, Nicolas Maduro.

The fact-finding mission revealed that at least 15 of the recent arrests involved children.

A violation of international law

Its report was one of the first international assessments of human rights under Rodriguez’s nascent presidency.

She took office after the United States launched a military operation in the early morning hours of January 3 to abduct Venezuela’s then-President Maduro. Previously, Rodriguez had served as Maduro’s vice president.

Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores currently remain imprisoned in New York, where they face charges of drug trafficking and weapons possession.

The US has backed Rodriguez’s ascent to the presidency. Both her government and that of US President Donald Trump have said there is no immediate plan to hold a new election in Venezuela, citing the need for stability.

Quintero emphasised that it was the view of the fact-finding mission that the US operation “violated international law”, echoing the legal consensus.

“While the Mission has reasonable grounds to believe that Nicolas Maduro is responsible for crimes against humanity committed against the civilian population, this does not justify an unlawful military intervention,” Quintero wrote.

Her remarks also pointed out that, while Maduro may be gone, the rest of his government remains.

That government has faced repeated accusations that it perpetrated violence against members of Venezuela’s political opposition and others deemed critical of the country’s socialist leadership.

“The legal instruments that have long served as a basis for political persecution remain fully in force,” Quintero said.

“State institutions that played a key role in the repression — and which have been identified in previous Mission reports — have not been reviewed or reformed.”

Human rights groups have collected thousands of reports of arbitrary detention, as well as torture and extrajudicial killings, under Maduro, who served as president from 2013 until January.

Members of Venezuela’s opposition have also called for the removal of the existing government, which they say fraudulently claimed victory in the 2024 presidential race, despite vote tallies indicating otherwise.

Limits to ‘positive’ steps

At first, Quintero said the fact-finding mission found that developments under Rodriguez “initially appeared encouraging”.

She pointed to “positive” steps like the release of political prisoners and passage of an amnesty law that would lift criminal penalties for dissidents facing certain criminal charges.

But the benefits of those steps, she said, were mitigated by irregularities. The amnesty law was narrow in scope — only addressing certain accusations, made within a specific time range — and the bill never received a full, public reading.

Meanwhile, the government has claimed to release more political prisoners than has actually been verified by local human rights groups.

Quintero added that the fact-finding mission also found that 30 officials from Venezuela’s Scientific, Criminal and Forensic Investigations Corps (CICPC) — part of the national police agency — were detained for failing to produce false evidence about the US’s attack on January 3.

Their family members, she indicated, also faced government retaliation. The fact-finding mission called for more changes to be made to address the continued human rights abuses.

“A far deeper and more enduring transformation is required so that the population can trust that the long years of repression and violence have truly come to an end,” Quintero wrote.

Instead, she warned that the existing “machinery” of repression is simply “mutating” to adapt to the new reality in Venezuela, post-Maduro.

KATIE Price has warned that her son Harvey “will die of a heart attack” as she begs the NHS to put him of fat jabs.

The former glamour model, 47, revealed her worst fears for her 23-year-old son, who has a rare genetic disorder called Prader-Willi syndrome, which causes insatiable hunger, alongside autism, septo-optic dysplasia.

Last April Katie told fans that she was worried for her son’s life as he weighed nearly 30 stone.

And now the TV personality has shared another serious health update on the latest episode of her podcast.

A worried Katie said: “I’ve been on the case to doctors about putting him on the Monjaro.

“I’m actually going to put some up on Instagram to say, is there any private doctors out there because the NHS are so – I’m not slagging the NHS off, but they know he’s in the obese category.

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“When he sleeps, I worry because he’s snoring and wheezing.

“Then sometimes he holds his breath and I’m like, he’s massive, Sophie.

“He’s just getting bigger and he’ll end up dying of a heart attack.

“They’ve already told me years ago that if you don’t lose weight, he’s prone to a heart attack.”

She added: “I just feel so bad, so I’m going to have to do something.

“I mean, I’m not going to inject him myself because that’s not medically right to do for him. But something needs to be done.

“He’s just huge. So that’s that. But I’ve enjoyed having him.”

In January, Katie said Harvey was set to start fab jabs soon.

Katie confessed: “Things are definitely going to change for Harvey when we move because although he’s moving to adult residential, he’s also going to be starting Mounjaro.”

She explained she would be keeping an eye on him while he takes the medication, adding: “So, he’ll be losing weight.”

Harvey has several complex medical conditions, including Prader-Willi Syndrome, which causes an excessive appetite and weight gain, and autism.

Back in November, Katie spoke out in one of her podcast episodes, saying: “He’s not started fat jabs,” after speculation he had already started the weight loss injections.

She went on to say: “There are talks of fat jabs – of Mounjaro – for him.

“But when he was there, they’ve actually got a new weight loss drug coming out, and it’s new.

“They’ve clinically tested it on people and they’ve got a few people they’re putting it on first.”

Katie then said: “And if it works, then Harvey can go on it in the new year.

“But they want him to start the Mounjaro.

“Because if he goes on Mounjaro first and then goes onto this new one, it will work a lot quicker.

“The reason he hasn’t started Mounjaro yet is because they were trying to get him to lose weight through his diet, to try all avenues,” she explained.

Despite not being on fat jabs yet, Harvey has still lost a substantial amount of weight

Back in October, Katie opened up about how much weight he had lost.

“Last I heard, he lost 22lbs, is he still going?” Katie’s sister asked on their podcast last month.

Katie then revealed: “He’s lost a stone and a half. I can notice it on his chest, but not the belly yet.”

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday threatened Iran with unprecedented military consequences if it had placed mines in the Strait of Hormuz and failed to remove them, Anadolu reports.

“If for any reason mines were placed, and they are not removed forthwith, the military consequences to Iran will be at a level never seen before,” Trump wrote on his social media platform Truth Social.

He added that removing the mines would be “a giant step in the right direction.”

Trump, however, also noted that US has “no reports of” Tehran putting out mines in the waterway.

The warning came after a CNN report that Iran has begun laying mines in the strait. Sources told the news outlet that only a few dozen had been placed so far, but Iran still had up to 90% of its small boats and mine-laying vessels intact, leaving it capable of deploying hundreds more.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints, with around 20 million barrels of oil passing through it daily. Iran’s IRGC had previously announced the closure of the strait to transit following the start of the US-Israeli attacks on Iran on Feb. 28, pushing oil prices above and raising fears of a prolonged global energy disruption.

The escalation in the Middle East flared since Israel and the US launched a joint attack on Iran on Feb. 28, and to date killing more than 1,200 people, including Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was the supreme leader. At least eight US service members have been killed since the beginning of the campaign.

The World Health Organization has warned that “black rain” caused by Israeli strikes on Iran’s oil facilities could pose health risks, especially for children. Iranian authorities have advised residents stay indoors as fires and thick smoke worsen air quality.

HM Passport Office has issued an urgent warning to all passport holders

Anyone holding a passport has been cautioned not to “risk it” as part of a warning from HM Passport Office. In a message posted to X, the Government agency urged Brits to “think before you share”.

This comes amid concerns over identity theft and fraud. On X, HM Passport Office stated: “Think before you share. Your passport includes important details personal to you – don’t risk it.

“Secure your passport. Protect your identity. #ProtectYourPassport.”

In an accompanying video, the office explained: “Your passport is an important document. Here are some simple steps to help keep your identity secure.”

These steps are:

• Never publicly share personal details online
• Only share details with trusted sources
• Keep a secure copy of your passport details page
• Report loss or theft online immediately on GOV.UK

Replace a lost, stolen or damaged passport

If your passport has been lost or stolen, you must cancel it before applying for a replacement. GOV.UK states: “If your passport is damaged you must replace it. You may not be able to travel with it.”

HM Passport Office will consider your passport damaged if:

• You cannot read any of your details
• Any of the pages are ripped, cut or missing
• There are holes, cuts or rips in the cover
• The cover is coming away
• There are stains on the pages (for example, ink or water damage)

Replace online

You can replace your passport online for a fee of £94.50. To do this you’ll need:

• A digital photo
• A credit or debit card

If you’re replacing a lost or stolen passport, you’ll need someone to verify your identity online. You can apply for a replacement online here.

Replace using a paper application

You can obtain a paper application form by either:

• Visiting the Post Office
• Phoning the Passport Adviceline

The cost is £107. Payment methods include:

• Debit or credit card – complete the form in the application pack
• Cheque – made payable to ‘HM Passport Office’

You’ll require two new and identical printed photos of yourself. If you’re using a paper form, you can utilise the Post Office Check and Send service.

The address to post it to is provided on the form. For additional information, visit GOV.UK here.

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French President Emmanuel Macron has warned Israel against invading Lebanon, after the Israeli military said its troops had begun operating in the south of the country following Hezbollah attacks.

RAF Akrotiri on Cyprus was hit by a drone, which has threatened the safety of British military personnel, and now the Foreign Office has issued a warning to tourists there

British tourists on Cyprus should follow five key steps to ensure their safety, the Foreign Office says.

Visitors on the island in the Mediterranean Sea have been ordered to keep their departure plans under review and ensure their travel documents are up to date amid the conflict in the Middle East. RAF Akrotiri on Cyprus was hit by a drone on Monday, after which 60 flights to and from Cypriot airports were cancelled.

The UK will send HMS Dragon, one of the Royal Navy’s six Type 45 air defence destroyers, but tourists should also take action. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO)’s website reads: “Regional escalation poses significant security risks and has led to travel disruption.”

READ MORE: Iran war LIVE as Ali Khamenei’s son Mojtaba named as new Supreme LeaderREAD MORE: US commander tells troops Trump was ‘chosen by Jesus to unleash Iran Armageddon’

As Birmingham Live reports, the FCDO’s full five tips are;

• read guidance on “how to prepare for a crisis” on the FCDO website, with suggestions on what you might include in your emergency supplies and “what to do in a crisis”

• sign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts

• monitor local and international media

• sign up to local information alerts/resources AND follow the advice of local authorities

• keep your departure plans under review AND ensure your travel documents are up to date

The conflict and tension in the Middle East and Gulf states continues. Donald Trump, though, has said he is “not happy” with the UK after it did not initially allow the US to use its bases for strikes on Iran, and added that Keir Starmer is “not Winston Churchill”.

It is the latest in a series of broadsides from the US president over the UK’s position on the Middle East war. Meanwhile, the Foreign Secretary confirmed that a Government charter flight will take off from Muscat, Oman, “in the coming days” to bring vulnerable British nationals back.

The HMS Dragon, due to be sent from Portsmouth in Hampshire and crewed by more than 200 people, is designed for air defence, it is equipped with a Sea Viper anti-air missile system. Defence Secretary John Healey said: “We are moving quickly to further reinforce our defensive presence in the Eastern Mediterranean.

“HMS Dragon brings world-class air defence capability, and our Wildcat helicopters are armed with Martlet missiles to counter the growing drone threat.

“I am deeply proud of the professionalism and bravery of our Armed Forces personnel who have in recent days, successfully taken action across the region to protect our allies and defend British interests.”

Dozens of countries remain on a list, compiled by FCDO, which Brits should not visit due to the ongoing conflict. These include holiday hotspots, such as Egypt and the United Arab Emirates.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman has warned European countries against joining the ongoing war with Israel and the US. His statement comes after France, Germany and Britain said they can take “defensive action” to counter Iran’s missile-launching capabilities.

The Foreign Office has taken measures amid the war in the Middle East and several holiday hotspots, such as Thailand, Egypt and United Arab Emirates, are impacted

Brits have been warned not to travel to dozens of countries due to the war in the Middle East.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO)’s list, which is constantly being updated, includes holiday hotspots, such as Thailand, Egypt and United Arab Emirates. Flights in and out of Dubai, which is in the United Arab Emirates, were suspended on the weekend and Brits there remain stranded.

Keir Starmer has insisted the UK Government will help keep Brits abroad safe. However, his FCDO team has listed 76 countries Brits should avoid for the time being due to the conflict. Of 226 countries or territories with foreign travel advice pages, 76 are currently flagged as having no-go zones.

Larges areas of airspace remained closed across the Middle East. Various airlines, including British Airways, have said they are “closely monitoring the situation” and have cancelled “a number of our flights to the Middle East”. Our sister title, Birmingham Live, has carefully broken down the full list, which features countries all across the world.

READ MORE: Iran declares Strait of Hormuz CLOSED and will ‘burn all ships’ – as prices skyrocketREAD MORE: Keir Starmer clashes with Donald Trump on Iran as stranded Brits issued warning

FCDO advises against all travel

Afghanistan

Belarus

Burkina Faso

Haiti

Iran

Iraq

Israel

Mali

Niger

Palestine

Russia

South Sudan

Syria

Venezuela

Yemen

FCDO advises against all travel to parts

Algeria

Armenia

Azerbaijan

Benin – northern border

Burundi

Cameroon

Central African Republic

Chad

Congo

Côte d’Ivoire

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Djibouti

Egypt

Eritrea

Ethiopia

Georgia

India

Indonesia

Jordan

Kenya

Lebanon

Libya

Mauritania

Moldova

Mozambique

Myanmar (Burma)

Nigeria

Pakistan

Philippines

Saudi Arabia

Somalia

Sudan

Togo

Tunisia

Turkey

Ukraine

Western Sahara

FCDO advises against all but essential travel

Bahrain

Cuba

North Korea

Kuwait

Qatar

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to parts

Angola

Bangladesh

Bolivia

Brazil

Cambodia

Colombia

Ecuador

Ghana

Guatemala

Kosovo

Laos

Malaysia

Mexico

Papua New Guinea

Peru Rwanda

Tanzania

Thailand

Feb. 28 (UPI) — BERUIT — Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said on Saturday that he rejects any attempt to drag his country into “adventures” that threaten its security and unity, indirectly calling on Iran-backed Hezbollah to refrain from involving Lebanon in the ongoing U.S.-led war on Iran.

Salam’s warning coincided with a statement from the U.S. Embassy in Lebanon urging U.S. citizens still in the country to leave “now, while commercial options remain available.”

In a post on X, the prime minister appealed to all Lebanese “to act with wisdom and patriotism” in light of the “dangerous developments in the region,” urging them to place Lebanon’s interests “above any other consideration.”

“I reiterate that we will not accept anyone dragging the country into adventures that threaten its security and unity,” he said, referring to Hezbollah, which previously announced that it would not remain neutral if Iran were attacked and its leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, were targeted.

Salam, who also held a meeting with several ministers and relief officials, urged sparing the country the “repercussions” of the war on Iran, which broke out Saturday morning with joint U.S.-Israel attacks and prompted Iranian retaliatory strikes on Israel and U.S. targets across the Gulf Arab states.

When asked whether Hezbollah had reassured the Lebanese state that it would not participate in the war, he reiterated his call to spare Lebanon another war that “would bring even more suffering upon the Lebanese people.”

He was referring to the war with Israel that broke out on October 8, 2023, when Hezbollah opened a front in support of Gaza, during which top Hezbollah leaders, military commanders, and Lebanese civilians were killed, and substantial damage was inflicted, with border villages in southern Lebanon completely destroyed.

Despite a cease-fire agreement reached on Nov. 27, 2024, Israel continued to operate with near-total freedom, striking suspected Hezbollah operatives and positions almost daily, causing further destruction and casualties, including among civilians.

Salam and President Joseph Aoun also conducted diplomatic contacts in an effort to keep Lebanon “neutral and spare it from the repercussions” of the ongoing war in the region.

Aoun, for his part, affirmed that sparing Lebanon from “the disasters and horrors of external conflicts” and preserving its sovereignty, security, and stability are “absolute priorities.” Later, he was informed by U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Michel Issa that Israel has “no intention of escalating” against Lebanon, as long as there are no hostile actions from the Lebanese side, according to a presidential statement.

Hezbollah, for its part, announced the postponement of a Saturday event during which its Secretary-General, Sheikh Naim Qassem, was scheduled to speak. Instead, it released a statement condemning “the treacherous U.S.-Israeli aggression” that targeted Iran after months of threats aimed at forcing it to “surrender.”

Hezbollah also expressed “full solidarity” with Tehran and urged the countries of the region to “stand against this aggressive scheme and recognize its dangers,” warning that “its dire consequences will affect everyone without exception if left unchallenged.”

It refrained from hinting to the possibility of supporting Iran militarily.

The Prime Minister condemned Iran’s strikes targeting Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia, during calls with their top officials to reaffirm Lebanon’s solidarity against such “aggressions.”

Asked whether the U.S. Embassy in Lebanon and the Hamat military base, which hosts U.S. training teams, might be targeted by Iran, Salam said he could not rule it out but noted that all necessary security measures had been taken to prevent such attacks.

He also confirmed that his government was prepared for “any emergency,” having adopted “proactive measures” in anticipation of war, and assured that food, medicine, and fuel were available in quantities sufficient to meet citizens’ needs for at least two months.

He noted that Beirut’s Rafik Hariri International Airport remains open, with the country’s national carrier, Middle East Airlines, operating as usual — except for countries in the region that have closed their airspace. He added that some airlines have canceled their flights to Lebanon.

His comments came at a time U.S. citizens were urged by the U.S. State department not to travel to Lebanon and those who are already in the country to leave “now while commercial options remain available.”

Feb. 27 (Asia Today) — The People Power Party on Thursday condemned a joint prosecutors-police raid on its headquarters as a politically motivated investigation and warned it could resort to what it called “extraordinary measures.”

The joint investigation team earlier in the day searched the party’s central office in Yeouido and a company managing its membership list as part of a probe into allegations that members of the religious group Shincheonji were improperly enrolled as party members during the 2021 presidential primary.

According to reports, the warrant cited alleged violations of the Political Parties Act and obstruction of business.

In a statement, senior party spokesperson Park Sung-hoon called the search “a targeted investigation against the main opposition party,” alleging it was intended to deflect criticism over the ruling party’s handling of controversial judicial reform bills.

“This is blatant oppression of the opposition,” Park said, accusing investigative agencies of acting as “shields for those in power while wielding swords against the opposition.”

Party lawmakers also questioned why other allegations involving figures linked to the ruling camp had not seen similar investigative momentum.

Rep. Joo Jin-woo cited bribery allegations involving former Oceans Minister Jeon Jae-soo, claiming the joint team was prioritizing action against the opposition while sidelining probes into ruling party figures. He called for the immediate appointment of a special prosecutor.

Rep. Jin Jong-oh urged authorities to apply the same investigative standards to the ruling Democratic Party, while floor leader Song Eon-seok described the situation as “suppression and annihilation of the opposition,” warning that the party would mobilize “extraordinary measures” in response.

Following news of the search, party leader Jang Dong-hyuk and other senior officials went to the headquarters to review the warrant with legal advisers and discuss countermeasures.

The investigation centers on claims that Shincheonji officials directed followers to register as responsible party members during the 2021 primary process. Authorities have not publicly detailed specific findings.

— Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI

© Asia Today. Unauthorized reproduction or redistribution prohibited.

Original Korean report: https://www.asiatoday.co.kr/kn/view.php?key=20260227010008383

Foreign Office has shared its concerns

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) continues to issue warnings for those travelling to Turkey following the deaths of several UK nationals. The FCDO is responsible for issuing regular travel guidance covering roughly 226 countries and territories worldwide.

Many Brits travel to Turkey to for medical treatment, with the most popular procedures being cosmetic surgery, cardiac surgery, and dental care. The FCDO warns: “The standard of medical facilities and available treatments can vary widely globally and also within countries.”

The department confirmed it is aware of 7 British nationals having died in Turkey in 2025 following medical procedures, and guidance reads: “Some British nationals have also experienced complications and needed further treatment or surgery following their procedure”.

Those thinking about a trip to Turkey for medical, surgical or dental procedures are strongly advised to consult with your UK doctor, clinician or dentist beforehand. It’s also recommended that you conduct thorough independent research, as “private companies have a financial interest in booking your treatment and their literature should not be your only source of information”.

The Turkish Ministry of Health maintains a register of approved medical providers on the HealthTurkiye website. The FCDO emphasises it “cannot usually help if you have travelled abroad for medical treatment, for example if you have issues with the care received or costs involved”.

This is due to the fact that planned medical treatment is viewed as a commercial arrangement.

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A seasoned cruise ship worker has shared the four things that crew members really hate about passengers

Cruising should be an enjoyable and tranquil getaway, but certain passenger behaviours can seriously spoil the atmosphere for everyone involved. Lucy Southerton, a veteran crew member with nine years under her belt working aboard cruise ships, has revealed some of the biggest gripes shared amongst her colleagues.

Boasting a loyal following of more than 65,000 subscribers on her YouTube channel Cruising as Crew, Southerton provides insider perspectives and practical guidance for cruise aficionados. In a recent upload, she explored the irritations encountered by crew members, from dishevelled cabins to inappropriate advances.

Here are four behaviours passengers ought to steer clear of to guarantee a more pleasant voyage for all, reports the Express.

1. Dishevelled Cabins

According to Southerton, crew members, especially those in housekeeping and stewarding roles, become exasperated by passengers leaving their cabins in complete chaos.

She stressed that their role involves cleaning and sanitising the accommodation, not picking up after guests.

“It’s crazy to think they’re only on board for five days because of the amount of stuff that’s everywhere,” Southerton remarked. She appealed to passengers to show consideration and respect for crew members’ duties whilst occupying their cabins.

2. Inappropriate Advances Towards Crew

Southerton warned passengers against making unwanted romantic or flirtatious overtures to crew members, describing it as a form of sexual harassment.

She shared accounts from male cabin crew who felt uneasy and irritated when travellers overstepped the mark. “It’s hard when they take it another way and they think that they have a chance with you just because you’re a sexy crew member,” Southerton explained.

3. Lack of Manners

Among the most frequent complaints from cabin crew is passengers’ failure to display basic courtesy. Southerton emphasised the significance of simple pleasantries like saying “please” and “thank you.”

She recalled occasions where travellers would bark orders without a shred of politeness, underlining the necessity for respectful conduct, particularly whilst on holiday.

4. Bragging

Finally, she voiced her frustration with passengers who show off, particularly those who parade their wealth in front of less privileged individuals.

She encouraged passengers to be conscious of their surroundings and avoid boasting, especially to crew members grafting hard to provide for their families.

“Brag to people who are on a similar level to you,” Southerton advised, emphasising the need for consideration and compassion.

By remaining mindful of these behaviours, passengers can help create a more enjoyable and considerate atmosphere aboard cruise ships, encouraging positive exchanges between travellers and crew members alike.

US President Donald Trump has warned Iran it has 10 to 15 days to reach a deal over its nuclear program, or “really bad things” will happen. Iran’s envoy to the United Nations said Tehran will respond “decisively” to any military aggression.

Feb. 17 (UPI) — U.S. President Donald Trump said he would participate “indirectly” in U.S.-Iran nuclear talks due to resume in Geneva on Tuesday.

Speaking aboard Air Force One on Monday night, Trump said the negotiations were very important and he believed Tehran wanted to reach a deal, saying the fallout of not doing so would be very bad news, referencing U.S. air and missile strikes on the country’s nuclear facilities in June, following failed negotiations.

“I don’t think they want the consequences of not making a deal. We could have had a deal instead of sending the B-2s [stealth bomber aircraft] in to knock out their nuclear potential. And we had to send the B-2s. I hope they’re going to be more reasonable,” said Trump, who acknowledged that they were tough to negotiate with.

Similar optimism for its own prospects emanated from the Iranian side on Monday with the foreign ministry in Tehran saying it believed the United States’ position had shifted to “a more realistic one,” regarding Iran’s nuclear program.

Following a meeting in Geneva on Monday with International Atomic Energy Agency director general Rafael Grossi on “technical matters,” Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said he was heading into the talks with “real ideas” to achieve a fair and just agreement, vowing Iran would not be coerced.

“What is not on the table: submission before threats,” he wrote in a post on X.

On Friday, Trump announced he was dispatching a second carrier strike group, the USS Gerald Ford, to the region to join an already substantial U.S. naval armada in the Arabian to ratchet up pressure on Tehran over its nuclear and ballistic missile programs and a deadly crackdown on protesters that began in late December.

Trump said he was deploying the world’s largest carrier to join the USS Abraham Lincoln strike group sent last month because if Iran didn’t “make a deal, we’ll need it.”

The Gerald Ford and its battleships and associated vessels, currently deployed in the Caribbean, are expected to arrive in the Arabian Sea in three to four weeks.

Tuesday’s negotiations pick up from talks in Oman on Feb. 6 where a U.S. team led by Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law, met with the Iranian’s led by Araghchi, although proceedings were mediated by Omani officials and the two sides did not talk face-to-face.

As well as agreement on curtailing Iran’s enrichment of uranium, the Trump administration wants the talks to include its ballistic missile arsenal, a recent brutal crackdown on public protests and backing of regional proxies Hamas and Hezbollah.

Tehran has been pushing back, insisting it is only willing to discuss reining in its nuclear program — in exchange for sanctions relief.