Carib Scope

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  • Trump says Iran ‘afraid’ to admit it wants a deal

    Trump says Iran ‘afraid’ to admit it wants a deal

    WASHINGTON, United States – President Donald Trump made striking claims at a Republican congressional dinner Wednesday, asserting that Iranian officials are secretly participating in peace negotiations despite their public denials. The President suggested Tehran’s contradictory statements stem from negotiators’ fears of retaliation from both their own government and potential U.S. action.

    “They are negotiating, by the way, and they want to make a deal so badly. But they’re afraid to say it,” Trump stated, “because they figure they’ll be killed by their own people. They’re also afraid they’ll be killed by us.”

    These comments directly contradicted Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi’s recent declaration that “we do not intend to negotiate.” Trump maintained his position that Iran is being “decimated” in the ongoing conflict, now entering its fourth week, despite Tehran maintaining control over the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz oil route.

    The White House reinforced Trump’s aggressive stance, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt warning that the President would “unleash hell” if Iran fails to acknowledge military defeat. “President Trump does not bluff and he is prepared to unleash hell. Iran should not miscalculate again,” Leavitt told reporters.

    When questioned about negotiation status, Leavitt confirmed that “talks continue” and described them as “productive,” though she declined to identify current U.S. interlocutors following the assassination of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Reports suggest Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran’s parliamentary speaker, has emerged as a key figure in discussions.

    The administration maintained its four to six-week timeline for military operations, with Trump postponing his scheduled visit to China until mid-May to manage the ongoing conflict. The White House also declined to confirm reports of planned high-level talks between U.S. officials and Iranian representatives in Pakistan, which has positioned itself as a mediation hub.

    Amid escalating tensions, the U.S. continues military buildup in the Gulf region, deploying additional airborne troops and marines amid speculation of potential ground operations targeting Iranian oil assets or securing the Strait of Hormuz.

  • #Champs2026: Clarendon College’s Jamelia Young retains Girls Class 2 shot put

    #Champs2026: Clarendon College’s Jamelia Young retains Girls Class 2 shot put

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—In a stunning reversal of fortunes, Clarendon College’s Jamelia Young mounted a spectacular comeback to successfully defend her Girls’ Class 2 shot put championship on Wednesday at the ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls Athletics Championships. Young’s winning throw of 14.71 meters marked a dramatic improvement from her qualifying performance and secured her position as Jamaica’s premier junior shot putter.

    The victory unfolded as a narrative of persistence overcoming early adversity. Entering the finals ranked a distant eighth after Tuesday’s qualifying rounds with a modest 12.75m effort, Young faced formidable competition from Holmwood Technical’s Shamanda Wilmot, who had dominated the preliminaries. Wilmot initially continued her strong form by setting the pace with her best throw in the opening round.

    However, the competition dynamics shifted dramatically in the fourth round when Young unleashed her championship-winning throw, surpassing Wilmot’s leading mark. Wilmot ultimately secured the silver medal with a solid throw of 14.39m, demonstrating consistent performance throughout the event.

    Excelsior High’s Alyssa Forrester claimed the bronze medal with a throw of 14.22m, improving significantly from her qualifying distance of 13.42m achieved on Tuesday. The podium finishes highlighted the competitive depth in Jamaican junior athletics.

    Young’s winning mark of 14.71m represents a substantial improvement over her previous championship-winning performance of 13.65m from last year, demonstrating significant athletic development and technical refinement. The event, which was the first girls’ final decided at the national stadium during the championships, set a high standard for competition excellence for the remainder of the tournament.

  • Dominica to implement measures to cushion impact of Middle East war on local economy

    Dominica to implement measures to cushion impact of Middle East war on local economy

    ROSEAU, Dominica – The Dominican government has unveiled a comprehensive economic stabilization plan to protect its citizens and economy from the global reverberations of the Middle East conflict. Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, addressing a press conference on Wednesday, delineated the multifaceted risks posed by the distant war, emphasizing its potential to trigger a surge in fuel prices, inflate food costs, destabilize employment, and weaken the national economy.

    While assuring the nation is not under direct military threat, Skerrit warned of significant ‘economic aftershocks,’ noting the conflict has already precipitated the most substantial supply disruption in global oil market history. The island’s complete reliance on imported fuel places it at immediate risk, with projected spikes in electricity, transportation, and general consumer goods prices.

    Confronting these challenges proactively, the government is rolling out a series of targeted interventions. The strategy includes temporary reductions on import duties and taxes for essential goods and an expansion of support for vulnerable households through existing social protection frameworks. A key focus will be managing energy costs through close collaboration with the Dominica Electricity Services (DOMLEC).

    In a positive development, Skerrit highlighted the timely advancement of the nation’s geothermal energy project in Laudat, which is currently in an advanced testing phase. This domestic energy source is poised to provide crucial long-term relief from fossil fuel volatility.

    Furthermore, the administration plans to engage with stakeholders in tourism, agriculture, and the private sector to safeguard jobs and ensure economic continuity. Fiscal management will be strengthened through the careful prioritization of government spending, maintaining critical services while deferring discretionary expenditures.

    Prime Minister Skerrit concluded with a call for national unity and calm, drawing on the nation’s resilience in overcoming past hardships like hurricanes and pandemics, expressing confidence in Dominica’s ability to navigate the impending economic challenges.

  • ‘No negotiations’ says Iran foreign minister as US touts peace plan

    ‘No negotiations’ says Iran foreign minister as US touts peace plan

    The White House issued a stark warning to Iran on Wednesday, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declaring President Donald Trump prepared to ‘unleash hell’ if Tehran refuses to accept a proposed peace agreement to end the escalating Middle East conflict. The ultimatum came amid reports that Iran had already rebuffed a comprehensive 15-point US peace plan conveyed through Pakistani intermediaries.

    Leavitt emphasized the administration’s seriousness, stating, ‘President Trump does not bluff and he is prepared to unleash hell. Iran should not miscalculate again,’ while noting that diplomatic channels remained open. The proposed American plan, according to sources cited by The New York Times, addresses Iran’s nuclear and missile programs alongside maritime security concerns.

    Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi delivered a defiant response, asserting that Tehran ‘does not intend to negotiate’ and interpreting US diplomatic overtures as ‘an admission of defeat.’ Araghchi confirmed Iran’s commitment to continued resistance, outlining five non-negotiable conditions for ending hostilities. These include ironclad guarantees against future US-Israeli attacks, war reparations, cessation of hostilities across all regional fronts, recognition of Iran’s sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz, and cessation of operations against Tehran-backed resistance groups.

    The diplomatic stalemate unfolded against continued military escalation. Iran’s military claimed its cruise missiles had forced the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier group to reposition, while Israel conducted strikes on targets in Tehran and a submarine facility in Isfahan. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the situation as ‘out of control,’ with fighting reported across multiple countries including Lebanon, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia.

    Iran raised the stakes further by threatening to blockade the Bab el-Mandeb Strait—a critical Red Sea shipping lane—in response to any potential US ground invasion. This followed Iran’s existing restrictions on enemy vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, which have already driven global oil prices above $100 per barrel and disrupted approximately 20% of the world’s oil transit.

    Regional mediators indicated behind-the-scenes efforts continued despite public posturing, though prospects for immediate de-escalation appeared dim as both sides hardened their positions and military preparations intensified.

  • PNP Patriots demand full investigation into allegations against JLP’s Donovan Williams

    PNP Patriots demand full investigation into allegations against JLP’s Donovan Williams

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—Jamaica’s political landscape has been jolted by serious corruption allegations as the People’s National Party Patriots (PNP Patriots) has formally requested two independent agencies to investigate claims against Central Kingston Member of Parliament Donovan Williams of the ruling Jamaica Labour Party (JLP).

    The controversy emerged after Rosalee Hamilton, a JLP Councillor for the Rae Town Division, publicly accused Williams of financial misconduct and alleged abuse of political authority through various social media platforms. The allegations have sparked intense political debate and raised concerns about governance standards.

    In an official statement released Wednesday, the PNP Patriots emphasized the critical need for transparent investigation by both the Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA) and the Integrity Commission. Davalle Grant, General Secretary of the PNP Patriots, asserted that these claims transcend typical political rivalry and touch upon fundamental principles of democratic accountability.

    “The Jamaican public, particularly constituents of Central Kingston, are entitled to unequivocal clarity and accountability from those elected to serve them,” Grant stated. “These disturbing allegations threaten to undermine institutional credibility if not addressed through proper investigative channels with utmost urgency.”

    Grant further emphasized that the seriousness of these accusations warrants objective examination regardless of their eventual veracity. “This matter cannot be dismissed as mere political theater. Authenticated claims would indicate severe breach of public trust, while false allegations would equally require definitive exposure through transparent processes.”

    The PNP Patriots reiterated that no public official should be exempt from scrutiny and emphasized the implications for Jamaica’s governance framework, accountability mechanisms, and rule of law principles.

    In a developing countermove, legal representatives for MP Williams have issued a cease and desist notice to Councillor Hamilton, demanding full retraction of the allegations and a public apology. This legal response sets the stage for a potentially protracted political and legal confrontation that could significantly impact Jamaica’s political dynamics.

  • #Champs2026: Jamaica College’s Salmon on course to retain Boys Class 1 discus title

    #Champs2026: Jamaica College’s Salmon on course to retain Boys Class 1 discus title

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—Reigning champion Joseph Salmon from Jamaica College positioned himself as the athlete to beat in the Class 1 boys discus throw, delivering a commanding performance on Wednesday during the ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls Athletics Championships. Salmon launched the discus 57.38 meters on his first attempt, instantly securing his place in the final and sending a clear message of his intent to retain his title.

    The competition at the national stadium saw several standout performers who matched Salmon’s efficiency. Kamari Kennedy of Calabar High also achieved automatic qualification with a single powerful throw of 55.41m, surpassing the required 55.00m mark. They will be joined by last year’s bronze medalist, Rajeem Streete of Munro College, who advanced with a strong performance.

    The final field was rounded out by a group of talented throwers. De-Andre Henry (Calabar High) secured his spot with a throw of 53.48m, followed closely by Munro College’s Javontae Smith at 53.43m. Kingston College will be represented by two athletes in the final, with Nkosana Johnson (53.18m) and Daijon Budhai (53.05m) both earning their places through consistent performances. The stage is now set for a highly competitive final showdown.

  • Bus drivers demand $2 fare as rising fuel costs squeeze earnings

    Bus drivers demand $2 fare as rising fuel costs squeeze earnings

    Bus operators across the Bahamas are intensifying their campaign for substantial fare increases amid escalating operational expenses, with union representatives declaring the current pricing model economically unviable. Rudolph Taylor, President of the Bahamas Unified Bus Drivers Union, characterized the recent 25-cent fare adjustment implemented in 2024 as grossly inadequate, describing it as merely “a drop in the bucket” compared to the financial pressures facing drivers.

    The sector has consistently advocated for a comprehensive fare increase to $2 per ride, a request that has reportedly been disregarded through multiple governmental administrations. Mr. Taylor revealed that daily operational expenses now routinely exceed $100 per vehicle, primarily driven by diesel prices that have surged beyond the $5 per gallon threshold.

    This financial strain has been exacerbated by global market disruptions following Middle Eastern conflicts, which pushed oil prices above $100 per barrel and prompted warnings from local fuel retailers about further cost increases. Prime Minister Philip Davis acknowledged the situation, indicating government monitoring of developments while emphasizing existing reform measures designed to mitigate impacts.

    Beyond fuel expenditures, bus operators face mounting costs across all operational aspects. Mr. Taylor detailed significant price increases for brake components, dealer parts, and tires—with quality tires now costing approximately $150 each. Despite these challenges, some passengers have voluntarily offered payments above the standard $1.50 fare in recognition of the service provided.

    The union leader emphasized the public service commitment of bus drivers while challenging public perceptions about transportation necessities. “Persons feel as if the buses are not needed,” he noted. “Some persons are very judgmental about the buses…but they need to have their facts and see what bus drivers do on a daily, weekly, monthly and annual basis for the public.”

  • #Champs2026: KC’s Noble wins first gold of Champs 2026, taking Class 2 long jump

    #Champs2026: KC’s Noble wins first gold of Champs 2026, taking Class 2 long jump

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—The ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls Athletics Championships witnessed its first gold medal victory on Wednesday as Kingston College’s Odane Noble delivered a spectacular performance in the Class 2 boys long jump event. Noble secured top honors with an impressive leap of 7.18 meters (0.5m/s) on the second day of competition at the national stadium.

    The young athlete demonstrated remarkable consistency throughout the event, achieving three jumps exceeding the 7.00-meter mark. Among his four legal attempts, Noble recorded distances of 7.07m and 7.09m, showcasing his technical prowess and competitive dominance.

    The silver medal position was claimed by Calabar High’s Talshawn Edwards, who posted a strong jump of 7.02m (1.7m/s). The bronze medal decision required a tie-breaker procedure after St Jago High’s Winaldo Faulknor and Cornwall College’s Zhi-Hew Whitter both recorded identical best jumps of 6.79m (1.5m/s).

    Faulknor ultimately secured third place based on his superior second-best jump of 6.77m (0.8m/s), which exceeded Whitter’s secondary effort of 6.72m (0.6m/s) from the opening round. The intense competition highlighted the exceptional talent emerging within Jamaica’s high school athletics program.

  • Churches to receive hurricane grants in April

    Churches to receive hurricane grants in April

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—The Jamaican government has unveiled a substantial financial assistance program for religious institutions devastated by Hurricane Melissa last October. Minister of Local Government and Community Development Desmond McKenzie confirmed that 419 churches will receive restoration grants in April through the government’s Community Church Clean-Up and Restoration Initiative.

    The announcement came during McKenzie’s keynote address at the Kingston and St Andrew Governance Conference, held Wednesday at the Jamaica Conference Centre. The minister revealed that approximately 6,000 churches across Jamaica suffered damage during the hurricane’s passage, prompting extensive damage assessments through the Social Development Commission (SDC).

    The $75 million initiative forms a critical component of the broader post-Hurricane Melissa National Clean-Up Programme. Assessment teams evaluated religious institutions across the most severely affected parishes with support from municipal corporations and community organizations. The SDC received applications from churches in St Elizabeth, Westmoreland, St James, Trelawny, and Hanover, with the highest concentration from St Elizabeth, Westmoreland, and St James.

    Minister McKenzie specified that the formal handover of checks will occur in St Elizabeth, which contains the largest number of impacted churches. The grants target institutions that completed the official assessment, evaluation, and authorization process following the October disaster.

    The governance conference, themed ‘Civil Society Organisations (CSO) on a Mission: Reset the Vibe…Build Our Future…Reignite the Fire’, provided the platform for this significant recovery announcement, highlighting the government’s commitment to community infrastructure restoration.

  • Xodus Carnival and Chas E Ramson celebrate 5 years of partnership

    Xodus Carnival and Chas E Ramson celebrate 5 years of partnership

    A conventional five-year sponsorship arrangement between Xodus Carnival and consumer goods distributor Chas E Ramson has evolved into a sophisticated strategic alliance built upon mutual dedication to excellence, innovation, and consumer experience enhancement. This partnership represents a paradigm shift in how brands engage with consumers through immersive experiences rather than traditional advertising channels.

    Chas E Ramson celebrates its fifth consecutive year as both sponsor and strategic partner to Xodus Carnival, demonstrating the company’s sustained commitment to premium experiential marketing and authentic consumer connectivity. The collaboration has proven particularly valuable for reaching consumers in dynamic, high-energy environments where they are most receptive to brand interactions.

    Kathryn Silvera, Director of Sales and Marketing at Chas E Ramson Limited, emphasized the strategic value: “This partnership positions us precisely where our consumers congregate—active, social settings where they seek convenient, nutritious options. Through Xodus Wet, our workout series, and Road March events, we achieve direct engagement with our target demographic in authentic environments.”

    Jamaica’s Carnival continues to demonstrate substantial economic significance, with projections indicating a J$165 billion economic impact for 2025. For Chas E Ramson, participation transcends conventional brand visibility, offering unprecedented opportunities for meaningful consumer connection within a single, vibrant marketplace.

    Pierre Goubault, CEO of Xodus Carnival, expressed satisfaction with the enduring partnership: “Chas E Ramson’s collaboration has genuinely elevated the Xodus experience throughout our years together. Their capacity to seamlessly integrate quality products into our events enhances the overall journey for participants, adding both convenience and enjoyment at every stage.”

    The partnership has generated remarkable results through experiential marketing strategies that prioritize direct consumer interaction over traditional advertising. This approach has fostered significant brand loyalty and created lasting consumer impressions through hands-on product experiences.

    The company’s product portfolio demonstrates natural synergy with carnival experiences, emphasizing premium quality and exceptional service. This year’s participants will encounter diverse brands including Foska oats, Elle & Vire yogurts, Hungry Jack pancake and waffle mixes, and Kisko Freezies—all strategically integrated to enhance the Carnival journey through energizing breakfast options, convenient snacks, and refreshing treats that maintain participant engagement throughout events.