Carib Scope

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  • US and Israel up attacks on Iran: ‘We’re doing well’, says Trump

    US and Israel up attacks on Iran: ‘We’re doing well’, says Trump

    The Middle East faces a severe escalation of military conflict as joint United States and Israeli forces intensify their offensive campaign against Iran. Following the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the coalition has executed approximately 1,700 strikes deep within Iranian territory, marking a significant expansion of hostilities.

    According to Iran’s Red Crescent organization, these sustained attacks have resulted in 787 fatalities, underscoring the devastating human cost of the ongoing operations. In retaliation, Iran has launched counter-offensives across the region, targeting Israeli positions and other strategic locations. These exchanges have claimed the lives of six U.S. service members and eleven Israeli citizens, with additional casualties reported in the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Bahrain.

    The conflict has spread beyond immediate borders, with Lebanon experiencing significant violence. Iran-backed Hezbollah militants have fired missiles into Israel, prompting retaliatory airstrikes from the Israeli military. Lebanese authorities report dozens of casualties from these exchanges, while Israel has initiated ground operations in southern Lebanon.

    In a tragic incident highlighting the fog of war, Kuwait’s defense systems mistakenly shot down three U.S. fighter jets after misidentifying them as threats.

    U.S. leadership presents contrasting timelines for the conflict’s duration. President Donald Trump suggested military operations could continue for four to five weeks, possibly longer, while Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth assured the public the campaign would not be “endless” and clarified that regime change is not the objective. When questioned about worst-case scenarios, Trump remarked, “I guess if someone as bad comes in.”

    Diplomatic efforts appear stalled amid the violence. While Trump claimed Iranian officials might be interested in negotiations, Iran’s top security official Ali Larijani explicitly stated Tehran’s refusal to engage in talks with the United States.

    The regional turmoil has triggered global economic consequences, with oil prices surging sharply due to disrupted supply chains and exports. Multiple nations are evacuating their citizens from Gulf states under attack, while widespread flight cancellations and airport closures further compound the humanitarian and logistical challenges.

  • Family of Paddlers Ready to Take on La Ruta Maya

    Family of Paddlers Ready to Take on La Ruta Maya

    The Cruz family is preparing to compete as a mixed-gender team in the upcoming La Ruta Maya 2026 canoe expedition, combining decades of collective paddling expertise. The team consists of father Daniel Cruz Sr., his son Daniel Cruz Jr., and daughter Fransisca Cruz, representing a unique familial partnership in the challenging river race.

    Their participation comes amid significant controversy surrounding this year’s event. Multiple paddlers have voiced strong objections to last-minute alterations to the race’s finish line, with Belize Canoe Association Vice-President Elvin Penner characterizing these changes as “disrespectful” toward competing teams and their sponsors.

    The logistical modifications have raised substantial safety concerns among participants. MIDH engineers reportedly diverted funding originally allocated for Haulover Creek maintenance to alternative river projects, creating uncertainty about bank stability along the newly configured route.

    Despite these challenges, the Cruz family maintains their competitive focus. Fransisca Cruz highlighted the value of mixed-team dynamics, noting: “As a female paddler, you gain tremendous experience training with male competitors. I’ve acquired extensive knowledge from these partnerships.” Daniel Cruz Jr. acknowledged the persistent sponsorship difficulties that impact team preparation, while emphasizing their determination to persevere despite the escalating tensions surrounding the event’s organization.

    The family team receives support from The Nature Conservancy and the San Ignacio Town Council as they prepare for the demanding four-day river journey that tests endurance, strategic planning, and collaborative teamwork to the same degree as all-male competitor groups.

  • Battle for BSSAC glory begins Wednesday

    Battle for BSSAC glory begins Wednesday

    The quest for athletic dominance begins this Wednesday as Harrison College hosts the inaugural phase of the 2026 Dasani Barbados Secondary School Athletic Championship. The Shakira Shorey Field Event Championship will launch the competition, showcasing the raw power and technical precision of the island’s most promising young athletes across multiple disciplines.

    Defending champions enter the arena with targets on their backs. Combermere returns to protect its two-time boys’ championship title, while The St Michael School aims to maintain its girls’ crown secured in 2025.

    Technical Director Dorian Best expressed full confidence in the championship preparations, confirming that infrastructure setup was proceeding smoothly at the Harrison College venue. “We are currently erecting tents and configuring sectors for the different field event areas,” Best told Barbados TODAY. “All technical systems including computer setups are being finalized for tomorrow’s grand opening.”

    The relocation from Queen’s College to Harrison College represents a strategic decision to accommodate all four field events—shot put, javelin, discus, and long jump—which the previous venue could not fully support due to its lack of long jump facilities.

    The competition format will feature three preliminary flights with the top eight performers advancing immediately to final rounds. Best noted that participants have adapted well to the separated field and track event structure, calling it “a positive change” that has allowed physical education teachers and team managers to focus their preparation efforts more effectively.

    Despite the competitive excitement, attendance restrictions will be implemented due to venue space limitations, with the field event championship closed to the general public. However, fans can anticipate full access to the upcoming track segments scheduled for March at the Usain Bolt Complex, where the Esther Maynard/Shane Brathwaite Zone and Frank Blackman/Sada Williams Zone competitions will unfold.

    The week-long interval between field and track events provides additional preparation time for organizers to ensure optimal conditions at the main stadium, promising an exciting continuation of Barbados’ premier secondary school athletic competition.

  • Saint Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister visits Ghana on official trip – Ghanamma.com

    Saint Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister visits Ghana on official trip – Ghanamma.com

    In a significant diplomatic move, Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Michael Drew of Saint Kitts and Nevis commenced an official four-day state visit to Ghana on Tuesday, March 3rd, 2026. The visit represents a strategic effort to bolster bilateral relations between the Caribbean nation and the West African republic through enhanced South-South cooperation.

    The Prime Minister’s itinerary includes high-level engagements beginning with a meeting with the University of Ghana’s Vice Chancellor on Wednesday, followed by substantive bilateral discussions at the Presidency. These talks are expected to focus on expanding partnerships across multiple sectors including education, healthcare, trade, investment, and technology transfer.

    A highlight of the visit will be Prime Minister Drew’s participation in Ghana’s 69th Independence Day celebrations on March 6th, symbolizing the shared historical connections and contemporary solidarity between the two nations. The diplomatic agenda also features cultural immersion through visits to significant historical sites including the W.E.B. Du Bois Memorial Centre, Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, and the Cape Coast Castle.

    According to Government Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, this visit underscores the growing partnership between Ghana and Saint Kitts and Nevis, reflecting both nations’ commitment to mutual development through south-south collaboration initiatives. The visit is anticipated to yield new frameworks for cooperation that will reinforce diplomatic ties and create tangible opportunities for both nations.

  • Kleurrijke Phagwa-viering bij Indiase ambassade markeert gouden jubileum vriendschap

    Kleurrijke Phagwa-viering bij Indiase ambassade markeert gouden jubileum vriendschap

    The Indian Embassy in Suriname transformed Ambassador Subhash Gupta’s residence into a spectacular celebration of Phagwa (Holi), marking both the festival of colors and the commencement of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Suriname. The event brought together diplomats, government representatives, and community members for an afternoon filled with vibrant cultural expressions.

    Against a backdrop of rhythmic cautál performances, traditional dancing, and joyful singing, Ambassador Gupta highlighted the historical significance of the occasion. “This moment represents pride, reflection, and reaffirmation of our deep and enduring friendship that has flourished for centuries,” he stated, emphasizing the unique cultural bridge between the two nations.

    The ambassador traced this connection to the immigration period over 150 years ago when ancestors “brought not only their values but also their festivals, languages, folklore, and value systems.” He credited the Surinamese-Hindustani community with playing a “central role in nurturing and enriching this cultural treasure,” creating what he described as a “living bridge” between the countries through heritage, music, cuisine, spirituality, and shared values.

    Notably, Ambassador Gupta observed how Holi has developed distinct Surinamese characteristics, including unique rhythmic cautál singing and Baithak Gana, where Bhojpuri roots blend with Surinamese creativity. The flavors of Indo-Surinamese cuisine—with delicacies like roti, bara, and phulauri—have become “embedded in the Surinamese palate.”

    The celebration also served educational purposes, with the ambassador explaining Holi’s multifaceted symbolism: the victory of devotion over tyranny (as represented in the Prahlad and Holika story), the divine love of Radha and Krishna, and the agricultural celebration of spring’s arrival. “It reminds us that Satyamev Jayate: truth always triumphs,” he noted.

    This event launched a year-long series of activities commemorating the five-decade diplomatic relationship, which Gupta characterized as a partnership built on “shared democratic values, cultural affinity, and deep mutual respect.” The cooperation spans multiple sectors including healthcare, technology, and education.

    Before guests indulged in traditional Indian cuisine and dancing, the ambassador offered a hopeful message: “May the colors of Phagwa bring happiness, harmony, and peace into our lives. May the friendship between India and Suriname continue to blossom forever.”

  • Sandals Grenada’s Snuba team tops the charts

    Sandals Grenada’s Snuba team tops the charts

    GRENADA – SNUBA®, the innovative aquatic system bridging snorkeling and scuba diving, has emerged as the premier method for visitors to discover Grenada’s breathtaking marine ecosystems. This hybrid technology eliminates the need for cumbersome equipment and extensive training while enabling extended underwater exploration at shallow depths up to 20 feet.

    The system operates through a surface-connected air supply raft, allowing participants unrestricted movement to examine coral reefs, historic wrecks, and diverse marine life. Despite its technical simplicity, the psychological barrier of underwater breathing presents a significant challenge for novices – a hurdle overcome by expert guidance from professionals like Clevlon Charles.

    Charles, recognized as Sandals and Beaches Resorts’ top SNUBA® specialist for 2025, has transformed visitor experiences through his empathetic approach. His career trajectory exemplifies professional growth: beginning in housekeeping in 2015, transitioning to beach operations, and ultimately qualifying as a SNUBA® guide in 2023. Under his leadership, participation rates and revenue have consistently exceeded expectations.

    “The transformation begins in the pool where guests realize the accessibility of the system,” Charles explained. “Their subsequent transition to ocean exploration becomes natural, particularly when visiting Grenada’s legendary Underwater Sculpture Park.”

    The Moliniére Underwater Sculpture Park represents an ideal environment for SNUBA® exploration. Charles and colleague Troy John have successfully guided numerous apprehensive visitors from tentative pool sessions to confident marine adventures, creating memorable achievements for both participants and instructors.

    Curtis Bailey, Watersports Manager at Sandals Grenada, praised his team’s exceptional performance: “Our guides’ commitment to safety, enthusiasm, and professional excellence has fundamentally enhanced our aquatic offerings. Their ability to convert uncertainty into accomplishment demonstrates remarkable skill.”

    While SNUBA® doesn’t provide scuba certification, it serves as an introductory pathway to full diving qualifications. Many participants subsequently pursue complete certification programs, a progression that brings particular satisfaction to the instructional team.

    The professional development continues among staff members themselves, with both Charles and John advancing to become certified SCUBA instructors – ensuring continued excellence in Grenada’s underwater tourism sector.

  • Rape Case Against Elrington Dropped

    Rape Case Against Elrington Dropped

    In a significant legal development, the High Court has formally terminated the rape case against prominent attorney Orson ‘OJ’ Elrington after the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) filed a nolle prosequi, effectively ending the two-year judicial proceedings. The decision came abruptly this morning when Crown prosecutors indicated they would not move forward with the trial.

    The case’s dismissal follows a recent directive from Justice Nigel Pilgrim, who had requested DPP Cheryl-Lyn Vidal to present the complainant’s stance on whether the trial should be conducted in private sessions. The required statement was never submitted to the court, contributing to the prosecution’s decision to discontinue the case.

    Elrington had been accused of sexually assaulting a woman in her mid-twenties in January 2024. Throughout the proceedings, his defense attorney, Alifah Elrington, vigorously advocated for maintaining public access to the hearings, emphasizing that her client was entitled to his constitutional rights. She noted the unusual media scrutiny surrounding the case, stating that such public attention is typically reserved for high-profile individuals rather than ordinary citizens facing similar allegations.

    The defense attorney further expressed that while they accept the court’s outcome, the extensive damage to her client’s reputation remains irreparable. Elrington himself described the prolonged legal battle as ‘the most difficult and darkest period’ of his life, maintaining that the matter never should have reached judicial proceedings. The attorney indicated that future actions would be determined based on subsequent legal consultation, with a comprehensive report scheduled for broadcast on News 5 Live at 6 p.m.

  • UWI Five Islands Campus Team Advances to ICPC Latin America Championship in Chile

    UWI Five Islands Campus Team Advances to ICPC Latin America Championship in Chile

    In a groundbreaking achievement for Caribbean computing education, The University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus (UWI FIC) will become the first-ever representative from Antigua and Barbuda at the International Collegiate Programming Contest (ICPC) Latin America Championship. The historic event is scheduled for March 3-8, 2026, in Chile.

    Team ‘Frostbyte,’ consisting of computer science students Ajante Fraser, Silford Moore, and Akeem Richards from the School of Science, Computing and Artificial Intelligence (SoSCAI), earned their place through two rigorous regional qualifying rounds. Their accomplishment marks a significant milestone for the young institution, which only opened its doors in 2019.

    The ICPC, widely regarded as the ‘Olympics of Coding,’ presents formidable algorithmic challenges that test participants’ problem-solving abilities, computational thinking, and collaborative skills under extreme time constraints. The Latin America Championship serves as a critical semifinal stage, with successful teams advancing to the ICPC World Finals in Dubai scheduled for November 2026.

    Dr. Ilenius Ildephonce, Head of SoSCAI and the team’s mentor, has been pivotal in developing the campus’s competitive programming capabilities. His leadership has transformed UWI FIC into an emerging force in regional technical education.

    Campus Principal Professor C. Justin Robinson expressed profound pride in the students’ accomplishment: ‘This historic achievement demonstrates both the exceptional talent of our students and the quality of our academic programs. At UWI FIC, we prepare students not just for competitions but for real-world success as technology professionals and entrepreneurs.’

    The Antigua and Barbuda Board of Education has provided crucial support for the team’s travel to Chile, underscoring the nation’s commitment to STEM development. This investment in technological education is expected to yield long-term benefits for the country’s digital economy.

    As the world’s oldest and most prestigious programming competition, the ICPC attracts tens of thousands of participants from top universities globally. UWI FIC’s qualification represents a significant step forward for Caribbean technical education on the international stage.

    The university, which offers over 40 degree programs across four schools, also houses the Centre of Excellence for Oceanography and the Blue Economy, reflecting its commitment to regionally relevant scientific research and innovation.

  • Trump Criticises UK and Starmer Amid US-Israeli Strikes on Iran

    Trump Criticises UK and Starmer Amid US-Israeli Strikes on Iran

    Former U.S. President Donald Trump has launched sharp criticisms against British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the Spanish government for their perceived lack of cooperation with American-Israeli military operations against Iran. In characteristically blunt remarks, Trump dismissed comparisons to historic British leadership, stating “this is not Winston Churchill we’re dealing with” regarding the current UK administration.

    The military campaign, reportedly targeting over 1,700 sites including missile facilities, naval assets, and presidential offices, comes in response to the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Trump asserted that “everything’s been knocked out in Iran” following the extensive strikes, which he characterized as pre-emptive measures against an imminent Iranian attack.

    Humanitarian organization Red Crescent has documented 787 fatalities since operations commenced, while global markets have responded with increased oil and gas prices alongside declining share values. In a strategic move, the United Kingdom has deployed helicopters and the destroyer HMS Dragon to Cyprus.

    Trump expanded his criticism to encompass UK policies regarding the Chagos Islands and domestic affairs, while simultaneously warning about potential future Iranian leadership that might prove “as bad as the previous person.” The former president additionally attributed past American military casualties in Iraq to Iranian-supplied explosively formed penetrators used against U.S. forces.

    Independent verification by BBC Confirm has authenticated footage showing significant damage to Iran’s Assembly of Experts’ secretariat building near Qom, though no casualties were reported at this particular site.

  • UWI Five Islands sends first team to ICPC Latin America Championship

    UWI Five Islands sends first team to ICPC Latin America Championship

    In a groundbreaking achievement for Caribbean academia, The University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus (UWI FIC) will represent Antigua and Barbuda for the first time at the International Collegiate Programming Contest (ICPC) Latin America Championship. The event, scheduled for March 3-8, 2026 in Chile, marks a significant milestone in the nation’s technological education landscape.

    Team Frostbyte, comprising computer science students Ajante Fraser, Silford Moore, and Akeem Richards from the School of Science, Computing, and Artificial Intelligence, secured their position through two demanding regional qualification rounds. Their accomplishment represents the culmination of dedicated preparation under the guidance of Dr. Ilenius Ildephonce, head of SoSCAI, who has been instrumental in developing the campus’s competitive programming capabilities.

    The ICPC, widely regarded as the ‘Olympics of Coding,’ challenges three-member teams to solve complex algorithmic problems under intense time pressure. The competition evaluates participants’ critical thinking, collaborative skills, and innovative problem-solving abilities. The Latin America Championship serves as a semifinal event, with top-performing teams advancing to the ICPC World Finals in Dubai scheduled for November 2026.

    Professor C. Justin Robinson, Principal of UWI FIC, expressed profound pride in the students’ accomplishment: ‘This historic achievement demonstrates both the exceptional talent of our students and the quality of our academic programs. We are committed to preparing students not just for competitions but for successful careers as technology professionals and entrepreneurs.’

    The campus administration acknowledged the crucial support from the Antigua and Barbuda Board of Education in facilitating the team’s participation. This institutional backing reflects a growing commitment to advancing STEM education throughout the nation and is expected to have lasting positive impacts on technological development in the region.

    Established as the world’s oldest and most prestigious programming competition, the ICPC annually attracts tens of thousands of participants from hundreds of universities worldwide. A successful performance in Chile could propel Team Frostbyte to the global finals, where they would compete against the world’s elite programming talents for international recognition.