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Trump Reiterates Hormuz Ultimatum, Iran Warns Retaliation and Restricts Strait Access
WorldAPReutersBBC+146bloombergNYTwsjFTle-mondewapoThe GuardianNPR+138 morejust now149 sources

Trump Reiterates Hormuz Ultimatum, Iran Warns Retaliation and Restricts Strait Access

President Donald Trump has reiterated his 48-hour ultimatum to Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, threatening to 'obliterate' its power plants and energy infrastructure. Tehran has warned it will respond with attacks on U.S. and Israeli energy targets if its facilities are targeted and stated the strait is open to all except "enemy" ships.

US Deploys More Troops, Waives Iran Oil Sanctions as Trump Considers 'Winding Down' War
PoliticshinduTimes of Indiastraits-times+9Dawnjerusalem-postn1-bihsbs-newschannel-news-asiaexpress-tribuneDaily Star BDPremium Times+1 more1d ago12 sources

US Deploys More Troops, Waives Iran Oil Sanctions as Trump Considers 'Winding Down' War

The United States continues to deploy thousands of additional troops to the Middle East, while President Trump reportedly considers 'winding down' the conflict and has issued a 30-day sanction waiver for Iranian oil to ease global prices. This comes amid ongoing regional tensions and previous reports of Trump ruling out a truce with Iran.

Trump Rules Out Iran Truce Amid Continued Middle East Troop Surge
PoliticsAl Jazeerastraits-timesDawn+7express-tribuneDaily Star BDglobal-timestempo-englishdhaka-tribunedaily-mirror-lknaharnet1d ago10 sources

Trump Rules Out Iran Truce Amid Continued Middle East Troop Surge

President Trump's strategy in the Middle East appears contradictory, with reports of troop surges, including more Marines, alongside hints of winding down military operations. Trump has now ruled out a truce with Iran, further complicating the evolving approach to the conflict.

US-Israeli Rift Widens Over Iran Endgame Amid Israeli Strikes on Gas Fields
BusinesswapoAl Jazeerahindu+2straits-timesseneweb1d ago5 sources

US-Israeli Rift Widens Over Iran Endgame Amid Israeli Strikes on Gas Fields

The U.S. and Israel are increasingly at odds over their strategies in Iran, with tensions escalating after Israel's assault on the world's largest natural gas deposit and continued airstrikes on energy infrastructure. President Trump has stated Israel acted alone in the gas field strike, further highlighting the allies' divergent goals.

US Deploys 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Vessels to Middle East
Worldla-repubblicahvghindu+8hindustan-timesjerusalem-postklix-bandtvchannel-news-asiaRapplerDaily Nationdhaka-tribune2d ago11 sources

US Deploys 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Vessels to Middle East

The USS Tripoli, carrying 2,000 Marines, is set to enter the Arabian Sea, providing the US with an opportunity to deploy troops to secure the Strait of Hormuz. Additionally, at least three US vessels, including the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, have departed San Diego en route to the Middle East for routine operations.

Worldgulf-news2d ago

US Marines' Toughest Battles: From WWII to Iraq

Gulf News published a retrospective detailing the history of the US Marines, highlighting their involvement in America's most challenging conflicts, including World War II and the Iraq War.

Trump Rules Out Iran Ceasefire, Blasts NATO, Sends Marines to Mideast
PoliticsSCMPhinduTimes of India+8indian-expressstraits-timesndtvchannel-news-asiapunch-ngvanguard-ngmorocco-world-newsnaharnet2d ago11 sources

Trump Rules Out Iran Ceasefire, Blasts NATO, Sends Marines to Mideast

US President Donald Trump has ruled out a ceasefire with Iran, expressing confidence that the Strait of Hormuz will reopen "itself," while also criticizing NATO allies and deploying more Marines to the Middle East.

Strait of Hormuz Blockage Drives Up Gulf Food Bills Amid Conflict
WorldReutersNPRAl Jazeera+24ruvfazaftonbladetNHK Worlddigi24The Independentn1-serbiaaktuality-sk+16 more3d ago27 sources

Strait of Hormuz Blockage Drives Up Gulf Food Bills Amid Conflict

The conflict-driven blockage of the Strait of Hormuz is disrupting key shipping routes, leading to a sharp increase in Gulf food bills, particularly in Bahrain, despite shelves remaining stocked.

A total of 160 Greek seafarers are in the Middle East
WorldBBCFTCNN+26yle-uutisetnosukrainska-pravdaberlingskeSCMPtvn24delfi-ltdigi24+18 more4d ago29 sources

A total of 160 Greek seafarers are in the Middle East

The Greek government is closely monitoring the safety of seafarers as attacks on energy facilities in the region increase The post A total of 160 Greek seafarers are in the Middle East appeared first…

War Threatens Marine Life in the Gulf
Environmentle-figaro5d ago

War Threatens Marine Life in the Gulf

Thousands of marine species, including dugongs, sea turtles, corals, and mangroves in the Gulf, are facing severe threats from ongoing conflict, including bombs and oil pollution.

US military’s Iran war pivot forces Asia-Pacific security rethink
WorldSCMP5d ago

US military’s Iran war pivot forces Asia-Pacific security rethink

The redeployment of US military assets from the Asia-Pacific to the Middle East has split security analysts, with some arguing that any strategic damage is largely “psychological” while others warn of a real and measurable gap opening in the region’s defences. More than 2,000 marines and at least one amphibious assault ship have begun moving from Japan towards the Gulf as the US-Israeli war on Iran grinds on. The assault ship USS Tripoli, docked at Sasebo in Nagasaki prefecture, is expected t...

South Korean Civic Groups Urge Seoul to Refuse Hormuz Deployment Amid US Request
WorldBBCwsjFT+25wapoAl Jazeeratimes-ukruvindex-hrhinduTimes of Indiahindustan-times+17 more7d ago28 sources

South Korean Civic Groups Urge Seoul to Refuse Hormuz Deployment Amid US Request

President Donald Trump has called on allies, including South Korea, to deploy warships to secure the Strait of Hormuz, a request South Korea's presidential office is reviewing. Now, South Korean civic groups are urging the government to reject any US request to send warships to the Strait of Hormuz, warning of security risks.

Houthis Signal Readiness But Have Not Yet Joined the US Iran Israel War
WorldAPReutersBBC+73bloombergNYTFTle-mondeThe GuardianNPRAl JazeeraFox News+65 more8d ago76 sources

Houthis Signal Readiness But Have Not Yet Joined the US Iran Israel War

Iran's Shi'ite allies in Lebanon and Iraq have joined the war in the region unleashed by U.S. and Israeli strikes on Tehran. The U.S. says Iran has armed, funded and trained the Houthis with help from Hezbollah.

US Offers Reward for Info on Iran's New Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei Amid Speculation on His Future
WorldBBCbloombergNYT+92The GuardianNPRAl JazeeraCNNFox Newsnzztimes-ukhelsingin-sanomat+84 more8d ago95 sources

US Offers Reward for Info on Iran's New Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei Amid Speculation on His Future

The United States is offering a reward of up to $10 million for information on high-ranking Iranian officials, including the new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei. This comes as crypto prediction markets speculate on whether Mojtaba Khamenei will be removed from his position before 2026.

Air freight rates soar as Middle East conflict blocks trade routes
WorldReutersBBCbloomberg+99NYTwsjFTle-mondeThe GuardianNPRAl JazeeraCNN+91 more9d ago102 sources

Air freight rates soar as Middle East conflict blocks trade routes

Air cargo prices are skyrocketing due to disruptions in key shipping lanes caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. This has forced many carriers to reroute their vessels, leading to longer transit times and increased operational costs, which are then passed on to consumers.

Blue Ribbon may still summon ‘ex-Marines’
Politicsphilstar9d ago

Blue Ribbon may still summon ‘ex-Marines’

The Senate Blue Ribbon committee is still open to holding a hearing on the alleged money delivery scheme – as claimed by 16 “ex-Marines” and two other alleged soldiers – as long as they tell the truth and not turn it into a circus, Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson has said.

Epstein documents with claims against Trump released
PoliticsAPReutersBBC+120bloombergNYTwsjFTle-mondewapoThe GuardianNPR+112 more12d ago123 sources

Epstein documents with claims against Trump released

The US Justice Department published additional FBI documents describing interviews with a woman who said President Donald Trump sexually assaulted her after she was introduced to him by Jeffrey Epstein.

Sara hits critics’ ‘silence’ on cash  deliveries to pols
Politicsphilstar17d ago

Sara hits critics’ ‘silence’ on cash deliveries to pols

Vice President Sara Duterte yesterday questioned the “deafening silence” of civil society groups, the Church and lawmakers to allegations raised by 18 men who claimed to be former Marines, that they delivered suitcases containing billions of pesos to certain politicians.

Exclusive-U.S. Marines fired on protesters storming consulate in Karachi, officials say
WorldhinduYahoojapan-times+2jerusalem-postexpress-tribune19d ago5 sources

Exclusive-U.S. Marines fired on protesters storming consulate in Karachi, officials say

At least 22 people were killed and more than 120 injured as nationwide pro‑Iran protests in Pakistan turned violent, with the deadliest clashes erupting in Karachi where security guards at the U.S. consulate opened fire after demonstrators breached the outer wall. Unrest also spread to Gilgit‑Baltistan, where thousands attacked U.N. offices, leaving 12 dead. Authorities urged calm as tensions escalated following the killing of Ayatollah Khamenei.

US advisory panel warns China is gaining in undersea warfare
PoliticsSCMP20d ago

US advisory panel warns China is gaining in undersea warfare

A key congressional advisory panel issued a warning on Monday about China’s rapidly advancing maritime capabilities and urged the Pentagon to maintain its undersea “superiority”, underscoring growing friction in US-China relations weeks ahead of a high-stakes summit next month. China has invested heavily in submarines, undersea cables and sea-floor mining, potentially undercutting the US lead in undersea warfare, commissioners and witnesses said at a hearing of the US-China Economic and Secur...

Lacson fears probe into ex-Marines’ delivery story may turn into circus
Politicsinquirer20d ago

Lacson fears probe into ex-Marines’ delivery story may turn into circus

MANILA, Philippines— Allowing the 18 former Marines to appear in the Senate probe into the flood control projects mess may just turn the proceeding into a circus, according to Senate President Pro Tempore  Panfilo Lacson, noting that their stories were “lacking in believability” at the onset. This is why Lacson, who heads of the Senate blue

Palace spox: Defensor is another Mawanay
Politicsinquirer24d ago

Palace spox: Defensor is another Mawanay

Former Rep. Mike Defensor’s warning that another group of former Marines would soon come forward with supposed firsthand accounts of an alleged bribery scheme in the administration of President Marcos is turning him into another Ador Mawanay, according to Palace press officer Claire Castro. Mawanay—whose real name is Antonio Luis Marquez—falsely accused Sen. Panfilo Lacson

From Marines to bagmen? Palace sees ‘lousy script’
Politicsinquirer25d ago

From Marines to bagmen? Palace sees ‘lousy script’

MANILA, Philippines — The Palace spokesperson dismissed as a “lousy script” the accusation that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was the “mastermind” and biggest beneficiary of a corruption scheme supposedly employing former Marines to deliver travel bags filled with cash to politicians’ homes. Three former lawmakers called the allegation a mere diversionary tactic from this week’s

More solons question timing of cash suitcases issue
Politicsinquirer25d ago

More solons question timing of cash suitcases issue

MANILA, Philippines — More lawmakers have questioned the timing of allegations that several lawmakers received money in suitcases, with Mamamayang Liberal party-list Rep. Leila de Lima saying it is merely a demolition job. In a statement on Wednesday, de Lima said the accusations that she was among the individuals who received the suitcases are “preposterous” and were timed

2 die in fire in Bataan town
Worldinquirer26d ago

2 die in fire in Bataan town

ORION, BATAAN, Philippines — Two charred bodies were found after a midnight fire ate up the workers’ barracks in the Catalina Residences, a posh subdivision in Barangay Gen. Lim, Orion town. Police report said the fatalities were identified as Joel Reyes, 46, of Tapulao, Orani town, and Claresno Eusebio, of Nabua, Camarines Sur. READ: Fire

Romania Enters Technical Recession in 2025
Financedigi2427d ago

Romania Enters Technical Recession in 2025

Romania officially entered a technical recession in 2025 after its GDP declined for two consecutive quarters, an outcome anticipated since 2024 due to visible slowdown signals and necessary budget adjustments.

I toured the USS Lionfish, a Balao-class submarine that rescued downed pilots in World War II. Take a look inside.
WorldBusiness Insider1mo ago

I toured the USS Lionfish, a Balao-class submarine that rescued downed pilots in World War II. Take a look inside.

The USS Lionfish docked at Battleship Cove in Fall River, Massachusetts. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider The USS Lionfish was commissioned in 1944 and earned one battle star for service in World War II. It sank a Japanese submarine, rescued the crew of a B-29 bomber, and served as a training submarine. The Balao-class submarine is now a museum docked at Battleship Cove in Fall River, Massachusetts. The World War II submarine USS Lionfish was part of America's "Silent Service." Despite comprising less than 2% of all US Navy vessels during World War II, submarines like the USS Lionfish sank 55% of Japanese vessels in battle. This once-fearsome vessel is now a 311-foot-long museum exhibit, allowing the public to learn about its top-secret wartime operations. Take a look inside the USS Lionfish. Commissioned in 1944, the USS Lionfish earned one battle star for service during World War II. The USS Lionfish at sea in an undated photo. Arkivi/Getty Images Over the Balao-class submarine's two war patrols, she sank a Japanese submarine, destroyed a schooner, and rescued the crew of a downed American B-29 bomber. The USS Lionfish was recommissioned for the Korean War, serving from 1951 to 1953. From 1960 to 1971, the USS Lionfish served as a reserve training submarine, teaching crew members to operate similar vessels. Since 1973, the USS Lionfish has been on display at Battleship Cove, a maritime museum in Fall River, Massachusetts. The USS Lionfish. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider Tickets to Battleship Cove cost $25 per adult. I visited the museum in January to take a closer look at the retired submarine. The first stop on my self-guided tour was the forward torpedo room, where 16 torpedomen slept and worked. The forward torpedo room. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider The forward torpedo room featured six torpedo tubes, each storing a torpedo, and 10 reloads. The 16 crew members slept alongside the torpedoes on pull-out bunks, remaining ready to fire at all times. Behind the torpedo room was officers' country, which included the officers' pantry. The officers' pantry. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider In the officers' pantry, meals for the higher-ranking crew members were reheated and plated on Navy china. They ate the same food as the rest of the sailors, but in a fancier setting. Officers used the wardroom for dining, working, and relaxing. The wardroom on board the USS Lionfish. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider It could also serve as an operating room in medical emergencies. Junior officers slept in a room with four bunks. The junior officers' quarters. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider Officers enjoyed more privacy on board than enlisted men. Senior officers had even more privacy in a room with a triple bunk. The senior officers' quarters. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider The submarine's second-in-command, known as the executive officer, slept in this room. The commanding officer slept in the only private room on board the submarine. The commanding officer's stateroom. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider The commanding officer's stateroom featured a small desk that functioned as a private workspace. Chief petty officers slept five to a room in their quarters. The chief petty officers' quarters. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider Chief petty officers served as liaisons between the officers and the crew. This room was also colloquially known as the "goat locker" since the more experienced officers were affectionately nicknamed "old goats." In the ship's office, an administrator known as the yeoman handled all of the ship's paperwork. The ship's office. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider Personnel files, orders of supplies, and other administrative tasks were the yeoman's domain. Equipment in the control room managed the submarine's depth, speed, steering, and navigation. The control room. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider The commanding officer issued orders from the control center or the conning tower located directly above. The USS Lionfish's conning tower wasn't open to the public, but I did get to look inside one while touring another Balao-class submarine, the USS Becuna. Communications and covert operations were handled in the radio room. The radio room. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider The USS Lionfish was equipped with sonar, or "sound navigation and ranging," to listen for enemy ships in the surrounding waters. Chefs prepared meals for the submarine's 80 crew members in the main galley. The main galley. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider The galley prepared four meals a day: breakfast, lunch, dinner, and midnight rations known as "mid-rats." The crew's mess was an all-purpose room where sailors ate, lounged, and played games. The crew's mess. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider Frozen and refrigerated food was stored in compartments underneath the floor. The bunks have been removed from the crew's berthing during ongoing restoration work. The crew's berthing. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider Other Balao-class submarines held 35 or 36 bunks in this space. The USS Lionfish featured two engine rooms, each containing two diesel engines. The forward engine room. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider Each engine room was responsible for half of the ship's electric and propulsion power. In the maneuvering room, switches controlled the flow of electricity to the submarine's generators. The maneuvering room. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider While surfaced, the submarine's four diesel engines powered its generators, which in turn powered the ship's motors. While submerged, storage batteries powered the motors. My tour ended with the after torpedo room at the back of the submarine. The after torpedo room. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider Around 13 enlisted men worked and slept in the after torpedo room, which featured four torpedo tubes. The USS Lionfish remains unique among World War II submarines. The USS Lionfish docked at Battleship Cove in Fall River, Massachusetts. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider Over 50 submarines underwent a Greater Underwater Propulsive Power 1-A, or "GUPPY," modernization after World War II. However, the USS Lionfish remained as it was. Museum staff and volunteers are working to restore the USS Lionfish and preserve its original configuration. Even in frigid temperatures, I saw volunteers holding tools and walking carefully around the deck's open panels, revealing the complex mechanics beneath. Read the original article on Business Insider

Russia Flexing Arctic Nuclear Muscle Along Finnish Border, Defense Minister Warns
Worldzerohedge1mo ago

Russia Flexing Arctic Nuclear Muscle Along Finnish Border, Defense Minister Warns

Russia Flexing Arctic Nuclear Muscle Along Finnish Border, Defense Minister Warns Arctic security is now central to Europe’s stability, Finland’s defense minister has said, warning that Russia is rebuilding Cold War–style military infrastructure along Finland’s border while fortifying its nuclear stronghold in the High North. He also made clear his view that United States military might is very much needed, at least in the short term. Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen said Moscow is doubling down on its Arctic posture: "Russia has most of their biggest strategic capabilities in nuclear, submarines, long-range bombers in the Kola Peninsula area," he stated in a fresh interview. Arctic rivals Washington & Moscow: The Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Pasadena "They are building new military facilities along our border, same as the Cold War. It would be wise to watch the Arctic and build Arctic capabilities" for deterrence, Häkkänen continued. According to the publication he spoke to: The Kola Peninsula - a 100,000 square kilometer region in far northwestern Russia - hosts the majority of the country’s sea-based strategic nuclear arsenal, such as submarines, as well as long-range aviation assets. As for ongoing discussions within Europe to find an eventual alternative to the US nuclear umbrella, the Finnish defense chief explained his view that "In the longer term, it would be better that the Europeans have their strong capabilities." He added: "But in the short, and even mid-term, we need the US. It's crucial to European security." France and the UK offering to extend their nuclear deterrent across the continent is "good news" - Häkkänen conceded, but added that ultimately "That’s not the question now." Lately, Russia’s Foreign Ministry has sought to made clear that the Kremlin believes the Arctic should remain "a region of peace, dialogue and equal cooperation." The prior comment was issued related to the United States eyeing control over Greenland. A key part of the Trump administration's argument is that Russia and China threaten waters off Greenland - a view firmly rejected by both Moscow and Beijing. 🇷🇺🇬🇱🇺🇸 Lavrov: If Greenland is militarized against Russia, we will respond with appropriate countermeasures, including military-technical ones. The Arctic must remain a zone of peace. pic.twitter.com/2JtnrGS3fS February 11, 2026 President Trump has also claimed on the subject of Greenland that the large island is "vital" to his proposed Golden Dome air and missile defense system. But again, Russia is vowing it would respond if such significant assets were placed on Greenland. Tyler Durden Tue, 02/17/2026 - 02:45

Iran War Could Strain US Military Power for Years
Worldhinduhaaretzla-vanguardia+3hindustan-timesstraits-timesndtv2d ago6 sources

Iran War Could Strain US Military Power for Years

The ongoing conflict with Iran is increasing pressure on the US military, potentially weakening its capabilities for years and impacting its readiness for crises in Asia.

NBI Review Sought as Only Six of 18 Alleged Ex-Marines Signed Statements
Politicsinquirerphilstar4d ago2 sources

NBI Review Sought as Only Six of 18 Alleged Ex-Marines Signed Statements

Only six of the 18 alleged former Marines signed their written statements during interviews with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), as their counsel requested a review of the documents first. This development is part of the ongoing investigation into allegations that former Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman personally received cash from the alleged ex-Marines.

Baligod: Probe aims to portray him, ‘ex-Marines’ as gov’t destabilizers
Politicsinquirer5d ago

Baligod: Probe aims to portray him, ‘ex-Marines’ as gov’t destabilizers

MANILA, Philippines —  Atty. Levito Baligod said on Tuesday that he received information from an “active military officer” that the ongoing investigation into the joint affidavit of his clients—18 supposed former Marines—allegedly aims to portray him and the 18 individuals as “destabilizers” of the government. “Some bright people in Government want to canalize the ‘investigation’

Comparison of Swedish and Polish Submarines
Worldrzeczpospolita8d ago

Comparison of Swedish and Polish Submarines

An analysis compares the nearly 38-year-old Swedish submarine HMS Södermanland, which has undergone two deep modernizations, with the similarly aged Polish ORP Orzeł, highlighting the technological disparity.

Trump State Department Nominee Withdraws Amid Backlash
PoliticsAPReutersBBC+62bloombergNYTFTle-mondewapoThe GuardianAl JazeeraCNN+54 more8d ago65 sources

Trump State Department Nominee Withdraws Amid Backlash

Donald Trump's nominee for a top diplomatic post, Jeremy Carl, has withdrawn from consideration following growing bipartisan backlash over his past controversial race and Israel comments, marking a setback for Trump despite initial support.

NBI Finds Army General Recruited Bodyguards for Zaldy Co
Politicsphilstar11d ago

NBI Finds Army General Recruited Bodyguards for Zaldy Co

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has identified a retired general who allegedly recruited 103 people, including 18 alleged former Marines, to serve as security aides for former congressman Zaldy Co, adding a new twist to a corruption story.

18 ex-Marines notarized affidavits on flood-control kickbacks – lawyer
Worldinquirer12d ago

18 ex-Marines notarized affidavits on flood-control kickbacks – lawyer

MANILA, Philippines — Lawyer Charlie Pascual on Tuesday confirmed that 18 alleged former Marines visited his office to have affidavits notarized, in which they accused various government officials and personalities of receiving kickbacks from flood-control projects. This followed Pascual’s appearance before the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on Tuesday to comply with a subpoena issued

Lacson firm on ignoring ‘ex-Marines’
Politicsphilstar15d ago

Lacson firm on ignoring ‘ex-Marines’

Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson yesterday defended his decision not to hold a Blue Ribbon inquiry into the claims of 18 alleged former soldiers that they delivered P805 billion in flood control kickbacks to certain politicians.

Remulla: 6 of 18 ‘ex-Marines’ in bribery exposé are facing murder raps
Politicsinquirer17d ago

Remulla: 6 of 18 ‘ex-Marines’ in bribery exposé are facing murder raps

MANILA, Philippines – Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla on Thursday said that the 18 individuals representing themselves as former Marines were acting for “political effect,” noting that while several signatories are no longer in active service, six were charged with murder. “Not all of them are in active service, and many of them were discharged. Alam

Trillanes files raps vs Baligod, 18 alleged bagmen
Politicsphilstar17d ago

Trillanes files raps vs Baligod, 18 alleged bagmen

Perjury complaints have been filed by former senator Antonio Trillanes IV against 18 men who claimed to be former Marines, over their allegations that they delivered suitcases and paper bags containing cash to him and several others.

Hegseth says US effort to address Iran's nuclear ambitions will send 'plenty of signals' amid NK criticism
Worldjapan-timesKorea Herald18d ago2 sources

Hegseth says US effort to address Iran's nuclear ambitions will send 'plenty of signals' amid NK criticism

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Wednesday that US efforts to deal with Iran's nuclear ambitions will send "plenty of signals," as he addressed a question related to North Korea's criticism of the ongoing US military operation against the Islamic Republic. Hegseth made the remarks during a press briefing on the military operation, codenamed "Operation Epic Fury," which kicked off in coordination with Israel on Saturday. "As it pertains to other countries ... they don't really bear on the c

Leila De Lima ‘reveals’ contents of ‘maleta’ in viral video
Politicsinquirer20d ago

Leila De Lima ‘reveals’ contents of ‘maleta’ in viral video

MANILA, Philippines — Mamamayang Liberal party-list Rep. Leila De Lima on Monday acted out in humor the kickback allegations by “bagmen” with her clutching a “maleta” (suitcase) and a paper bag in a video clip that has since gone viral.  De Lima was accused by the supposed 18 former Marines-turned-“bagmen” of receiving wads of cash

Suitcase claim vs Marcos a lousy script – Palace
Politicsphilstar25d ago

Suitcase claim vs Marcos a lousy script – Palace

Malacañang yesterday dismissed as a “lousy script” the story of 18 men who introduced themselves as former Marines, who claimed they delivered suitcases containing billions of pesos to the houses of President Marcos and his cousin, former speaker Martin Romualdez.

S. Korea signs document confirming govt. support for Canadian submarine bid
PoliticsKorea Herald1mo ago

S. Korea signs document confirming govt. support for Canadian submarine bid

South Korean ministries and defense firms on Friday signed an official document confirming the government's support for efforts to win a major Canadian submarine procurement project, officials said. The move came as South Korea seeks to clinch the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project, valued at around 60 trillion won ($41 billion), to supply up to 12 3,000-ton class naval submarines to Ottawa, with the deadline for the proposal set for early March. Relevant government ministries, including the defe

Trump Considers Winding Down Iran War Amid Ongoing Tensions
PoliticsAPbloombergThe Independent2d ago3 sources

Trump Considers Winding Down Iran War Amid Ongoing Tensions

President Donald Trump is considering winding down military operations in the Middle East, even as the US sends more Marines to the region, Iran threatens tourism sites, and Iranian media reports an attack on the Natanz nuclear enrichment facility.

US Considers Risky Naval Operation to Reopen Strait of Hormuz, Recalling 1988 Incident
Businessdigi24la-vanguardiajapan-times2d ago3 sources

US Considers Risky Naval Operation to Reopen Strait of Hormuz, Recalling 1988 Incident

The US is deploying marines and an amphibious assault ship to the Middle East, with President Trump accusing NATO allies of reluctance to help open the Strait of Hormuz. His administration is reportedly considering a high-risk naval operation, potentially using "shield tankers" to protect destroyers from Iranian mines, to reopen the vital waterway, drawing parallels to a dangerous 1988 incident.

Philippine Transport Groups Slam Fare Hike Suspension
PoliticsRapplerinquirerphilstar+1VnExpress2d ago4 sources

Philippine Transport Groups Slam Fare Hike Suspension

Transport groups in the Philippines have criticized President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s decision to suspend an approved fare hike for land vehicles, arguing that their request for a P1 increase was urgent due to the ongoing fuel crisis.

NBI: Lawyer stopped 12 Co ‘bagmen’ from signing statements
Politicsinquirer4d ago

NBI: Lawyer stopped 12 Co ‘bagmen’ from signing statements

Only six of the 18 alleged former Marines, who claimed to have delivered suitcases filled with cash totaling billions of pesos to several government officials and personalities, including President Marcos, have signed their sworn statements before the National Bureau of Investigation, according to Director Melvin Matibag. In a message to the Inquirer on Wednesday, Matibag

Camarines Sur Gov. Villafuerte quits as NUP president
Politicsinquirer5d ago

Camarines Sur Gov. Villafuerte quits as NUP president

LEGAZPI CITY – Camarines Sur Governor Luis Raymund “LRay” Villafuerte Jr. resigned on Monday as president of the National Unity Party (NUP). In a letter to party chairman Ronaldo Puno, Villafuerte said his resignation would take effect once a successor is confirmed. Villafuerte, who has led the party since 2022, cited NUP’s long-standing practice of

‘Very damaging’: how the Iran war is hitting energy-intensive industries
BusinessThe Guardian6d ago

‘Very damaging’: how the Iran war is hitting energy-intensive industries

Conflict pushes companies struggling with rising costs in sectors such as steel and chemicals to the edge In its 160-year history, Somers Forge’s furnaces in the Black Country have cast steel columns for the Bank of England, part of the anchor for the Titanic and – more recently – propeller shafts for Britain’s nuclear submarines. The economic fallout from the Iran conflict is the latest of many geopolitical headaches the family-owned forge has endured, but it is already “very damaging”, said...

US Air Force KC-135 refueling plane crash in Iraq kills six servicemembers
WorldAPReutersBBC+63bloombergNYTThe GuardianNPRAl JazeeraCNNFox Newsnrk+55 more8d ago66 sources

US Air Force KC-135 refueling plane crash in Iraq kills six servicemembers

A US Air Force KC-135 refueling plane crashed in Iraq, killing six servicemembers, including Major Alex Klinner. The incident occurred amid the ongoing US-Iran conflict, with a GoFundMe campaign set up for Klinner's family.

Ombudsman: One of ‘maleta’ deliveries happened during Duterte time
Politicsinquirer9d ago

Ombudsman: One of ‘maleta’ deliveries happened during Duterte time

MANILA, Philippines — At least one of the alleged deliveries of “maleta” appears to have already occurred even during the term of former President Rodrigo Duterte, said Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla on Friday. Remulla, citing a reliable source, said one of the pictures included in the joint affidavit of the so-called “18 ex-Marines” was actually

8 of 18 ‘ex-Marines’ not assigned to Zaldy Co — NBI
Politicsinquirer11d ago

8 of 18 ‘ex-Marines’ not assigned to Zaldy Co — NBI

MANILA, Philippines — Eight of the 18 alleged former Marines who recently claimed to be “bagmen” of resigned Ako Bicol Rep. Elizaldy Co were found to be “not assigned” to the former congressman, National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag said. In an interview at the NBI headquarters in Pasay City on Wednesday, Matibag

Saab Negotiates Submarine Deal for Polish Navy
Politicsrzeczpospolita12d ago

Saab Negotiates Submarine Deal for Polish Navy

Swedish defense company Saab is in talks with the Polish government and industry to supply three A26 Blekinge-class submarines for the Polish Navy, with the first delivery projected for 2030.

Camarines Sur launches anti-flood, green embankment project
Environmentinquirer14d ago

Camarines Sur launches anti-flood, green embankment project

IRIGA CITY — The provincial government of Camarines Sur has launched an anti-flood and Green Embankment Project aimed at protecting flood-prone and coastal communities. Gov. Luis Raymund “LRay” Villafuerte Jr. led the rollout of the initiative on Friday, March 6, dubbed “Aksyon Kontra Baha,” in the towns of Garchitorena and Milaor. Provincial workers and residents

Sara hits critics’ ‘silence’on cash  deliveries to pols
Politicsphilstar17d ago

Sara hits critics’ ‘silence’on cash deliveries to pols

Vice President Sara Duterte yesterday questioned the “deafening silence” of civil society groups, the Church and lawmakers to allegations raised by 18 men who claimed to be former Marines, that they delivered suitcases containing billions of pesos to certain politicians.

National Security Adviser Año Sues 'Ex-Marines' for Fake News
Politicsinquirerphilstar18d ago2 sources

National Security Adviser Año Sues 'Ex-Marines' for Fake News

National Security Adviser Eduardo Año has filed legal action against 18 individuals, including supposedly former Marines, a lawyer, and a former congressman, for allegedly spreading 'malicious and fabricated' claims about his involvement in a cash delivery.

Deadline day: $20B submarine showdown puts Korean and German bids in spotlight
Politicscbc20d ago

Deadline day: $20B submarine showdown puts Korean and German bids in spotlight

Canada's high-speed push to replace its aging Victoria-class submarines reaches a pivotal moment on Monday as South Korea's Hanwha Ocean and Germany's TKMS submit formal bids in a program worth more than $20 billion. The contest — to supply up to 12 boats — will shape Canada's naval reach and industrial alliances for decades.

Sara Duterte says Co’s 18 ‘bagmen’ must ‘not be sidelined, dismissed’
Politicsinquirer24d ago

Sara Duterte says Co’s 18 ‘bagmen’ must ‘not be sidelined, dismissed’

MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte on Thursday hailed the 18 former Marines who acted as alleged bagmen of resigned Ako Bicol Rep. Elizaldy Co, and said that this only “proved” initial information that the government had been coordinating with the International Criminal Court (ICC). The vice president also said that the revelations by

Palace: ‘Wonder Boy’ Mike Defensor is ‘Ador Mawanay 2.0’
Politicsinquirer24d ago

Palace: ‘Wonder Boy’ Mike Defensor is ‘Ador Mawanay 2.0’

MANILA, Philippines — Palace press officer Claire Castro has likened Mike Defensor to infamous Senate witness Ador Mawanay, who testified against Sen. Panfilo Lacson over two decades ago but later retracted his statements. At Thursday’s briefing, Castro was asked to comment on Defensor’s warning that another group of former marines would soon come forward with their supposed firsthand

Top Marine says troops need to be able to lock in jobs before they leave the Corps
PoliticsBusiness Insider28d ago

Top Marine says troops need to be able to lock in jobs before they leave the Corps

The Corps' top enlisted leader, Sergeant Major Carlos Ruiz, is pushing for an earlier, and more aggressive, hiring process for Marines leaving the service. Ceiba, Puerto Rico, Dec. 12th, 2025. Lance Cpl. Michael Gavin/US Marine Corps Sergeant Major Carlos Ruiz urges early hiring for Marines leaving service. Delayed hiring leaves veterans vulnerable, risking affecting their mental health after the military. Partnerships with agencies like the Secret Service could ensure job transition for Mar...