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  • Iranian students rally for second day as fears of war with US mount

    Iranian students rally for second day as fears of war with US mount

    PARIS, France (AFP)—Iranian universities became the epicenter of renewed social unrest on Sunday as students staged competing pro- and anti-government demonstrations. The gatherings, held to commemorate those killed in recent protests, unfolded against a backdrop of escalating geopolitical tensions concerning Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

    The initial wave of demonstrations, triggered in December by severe economic hardship exacerbated by international sanctions, rapidly evolved into one of the most significant challenges to the Islamic republic’s clerical leadership in recent history. While President Donald Trump initially voiced support for the protesters and threatened intervention during the government’s lethal crackdown, the US administration’s focus has since pivoted to Iran’s nuclear program, which Western powers suspect is aimed at developing atomic weapons.

    Recent developments indicate a complex diplomatic dance between Washington and Tehran. Representatives from both nations recently concluded a second round of Oman-mediated nuclear talks in Geneva, with Iran expected to submit a draft proposal to avert military action within days. According to an Axios report citing an unnamed senior US official, Washington stands ready to return to Geneva on Friday for detailed negotiations if Iran presents its proposal within the next 48 hours.

    Simultaneously, the United States has significantly bolstered its military presence in the Middle East, deploying two aircraft carriers along with additional jets and ships while strengthening regional air defenses. This military buildup represents Trump’s dual-track approach of pursuing diplomacy while maintaining maximum pressure on Tehran.

    On the domestic front, Sunday’s campus rallies revealed the deep divisions within Iranian society. State-run Fars news agency published videos showing dozens of participants waving Iranian flags and carrying memorial photographs at universities across Tehran. At Sharif University of Technology, tensions flared as pro-government demonstrators shouting ‘death to the shah’—referencing the monarchy overthrown in the 1979 Islamic Revolution—confronted anti-establishment protesters, with uniformed personnel positioned between the groups.

    Iran International, an overseas-based media outlet designated as a ‘terrorist’ organization by Tehran, shared footage showing students at Sharif University displaying the pre-revolution flag. An AFP-geolocated video captured a substantial crowd chanting anti-government slogans while surrounding students waving the flag of the deposed monarchy.

    The human cost of the unrest remains contested. Iranian authorities acknowledge approximately 3,000 deaths, including security personnel and bystanders, attributing the violence to ‘terrorist acts’ instigated by the nation’s enemies. In contrast, the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) has documented over 7,000 fatalities, predominantly protesters, suggesting the actual toll may be considerably higher.

    Amid these developments, growing apprehensions about potential military conflict have emerged among Iranian civilians. Tehran resident Hamid revealed experiencing sleepless nights despite medication, expressing profound concern for his family’s safety. Meanwhile, 46-year-old IT technician Mina Ahmadvand described war with the US and Israel as ‘inevitable,’ stating she has prepared for that eventuality despite her aversion to conflict.

    The escalating tensions have prompted several nations—including Sweden, Serbia, Poland, and Australia—to advise their citizens to depart Iran immediately. Australia’s warning highlighted that while commercial flights remain available currently, this situation ‘could change quickly.’

  • US Secret Service kills man trying to access Trump Florida estate

    US Secret Service kills man trying to access Trump Florida estate

    A coordinated security response at former President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida resulted in the fatal shooting of an armed intruder in the early hours of Sunday morning. The incident occurred approximately at 1:30 AM local time (0630 GMT) while Trump was confirmed to be in Washington, D.C., ensuring no protectees were present on the premises.

    According to official statements from the U.S. Secret Service, the male suspect, believed to be in his early twenties, breached the security perimeter near the north gate while carrying a tactical shotgun and a fuel container. Security personnel immediately engaged the individual, issuing clear commands to disarm. Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw detailed that the suspect complied partially by placing the fuel canister on the ground but subsequently raised the shotgun into a firing position.

    This threatening gesture prompted immediate defensive action from two Secret Service agents and a sheriff’s deputy, who discharged their service weapons. The suspect sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. No law enforcement personnel were harmed during the confrontation.

    This event marks the latest in a series of security threats against the former president. The context of rising political violence in the United States was underscored by recent cases, including the life sentencing of Ryan Routh just this month for an assassination plot targeting Trump at a Florida golf course. Furthermore, the attempted assassination during a Pennsylvania rally in 2024, which resulted in a bystander’s death and minor injury to Trump, continues to influence the nation’s political landscape.

    The broader pattern of political violence extends beyond Trump, with incidents such as the fatal shooting of right-wing influencer Charlie Kirk in Utah, the murder of Minnesota Democrat Melissa Hortman and her spouse, and an arson attack on Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro’s residence. The identity of the Mar-a-Lago intruder remains withheld pending family notification, as investigations continue under the jurisdiction of the Secret Service, the agency tasked with protecting current and former national leaders and visiting dignitaries.

  • Chillin on the Farm celebrates 15 years

    Chillin on the Farm celebrates 15 years

    TOLLGATE, Clarendon—The acclaimed Jamaican cultural event, Appleton Estate Chillin’ on the Farm, prepares to commemorate its 15th anniversary with a landmark celebration on Sunday, March 1. Hosted at Murray’s Farm in Clarendon, this year’s edition introduces an ambitious new theme: ‘Gone Legendary’.

    Organized through a partnership between Wright Image Entertainment and Murray’s Fish and Jerk Hut, the event has evolved from a local gathering into a significant fixture on Jamaica’s cultural calendar. Reflecting on the journey, founder and producer PJ Wright expressed profound appreciation for the event’s organic growth. ‘Our initial vision was simply to craft an authentic, genuinely Jamaican experience,’ Wright noted. ‘Witnessing its evolution and the cherished memories forged here over 15 years underscores the power of consistency, quality, and deep community engagement.’

    A premier addition for the 2026 staging is the debut of the Legend Food Court, presented by Wisynco Group Limited’s Legend Beer. The brand, conceived to honor everyday Jamaican experiences, finds a natural synergy with the event’s milestone anniversary. This dedicated culinary zone will showcase expertly curated beer pairings alongside an extensive selection of traditional, farm-style Jamaican cuisine.

    Remaining central to the event’s allure is Murray’s world-famous Curry Goat, a culinary masterpiece that consistently attracts a diverse audience from across the island and international visitors. Further solidifying the event’s unique appeal is the return of its spectacular whole roast cow tradition. This immersive display, featuring slow roasting over an open fire throughout the day, offers a rare gastronomic spectacle that distinguishes Chillin’ on the Farm within Jamaica’s premium event landscape.

  • Mt Alvernia win first Western Champs title

    Mt Alvernia win first Western Champs title

    In a stunning reversal of fortunes at the GC Foster College on Saturday, Mt Alvernia High School from Montego Bay secured their maiden County of Cornwall Athletics Association (COCAA) Girls Western Championships crown. The team amassed an impressive 327 points, decisively ending the long-standing dominance of St Elizabeth Technical High School (STETHS).

    The victory marks a significant milestone for Mt Alvernia, a consistent top-five contender that finally achieved a breakthrough performance. STETHS, the former perennial champions, finished in second place with 272 points. William Knibb Memorial High secured a distant third with 156 points, followed by Lacovia High (114) and Sydney Pagon High (107) to complete the top five.

    Team captain Malia Housen emerged as a standout multi-event athlete, dominating the field by claiming victory in the Class 2 long jump, high jump, and the open triple jump. Her teammate, Giana Murray, showcased exceptional speed by securing the sprint double in the Class 2 girls’ category. The team, under the guidance of coach Andrew Henry, demonstrated remarkable depth and coordination by winning four of the six relay events contested during the one-day championship.

    In the boys’ division, STETHS successfully defended their title, asserting their continued dominance with a commanding total of 435 points. William Knibb Memorial secured second place with 322 points, narrowly edging out rivals Munro College, who finished a close third with 320 points. Herbert Morrison Technical (149) and Cornwall College (147) rounded out the top five positions in the highly competitive boys’ standings.

  • US issues $1 million reward for capture of Haitian gang leader

    US issues $1 million reward for capture of Haitian gang leader

    U.S. law enforcement agencies have announced a significant restructuring of their most-wanted fugitives list concerning Haitian criminal leaders. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has removed Vitel’Homme Innocent, a gang leader previously carrying a $2 million bounty, from its prestigious ‘Ten Most Wanted Fugitives’ list. While Innocent remains at large in Haiti, authorities determined his continued listing wouldn’t generate new information crucial for his capture, despite extensive investigation and media exposure since 2023. The active investigation to apprehend him continues.

    Concurrently, the U.S. State Department has issued a new $1 million reward for information leading to the arrest of Johnson “Izo” André, a prominent figure in Haiti’s escalating gang violence. André, believed to be in his twenties, leads the heavily armed 5 Segond gang and is a key member of the Viv Ansanm coalition—officially designated a foreign terrorist organization by the United States.

    André is wanted for his alleged masterminding of the March 2023 kidnapping of a U.S. citizen in Port-au-Prince. According to official statements, the hostage was taken on André’s direct orders and held captive in Village de Dieu, a seaside slum serving as his operational base. The victim was released after nine days following a ransom payment that included the victim’s vehicle and firearms belonging to the victim’s father.

    Beyond kidnapping charges filed in the District of Columbia in December 2024, André and his criminal network are implicated in extensive cocaine trafficking operations. The State Department further attributes 1,035 documented cases of sexual violence to André and the 5 Segond gang, highlighting the brutal tactics employed by these criminal organizations.

  • England rout Sri Lanka for 95 to win Super Eights opener

    England rout Sri Lanka for 95 to win Super Eights opener

    KANDY, Sri Lanka—England delivered a commanding performance to launch their T20 World Cup Super Eights campaign, demolishing Sri Lanka for a paltry 95 runs to secure a decisive 51-run victory on Sunday. The win served as a perfect birthday gift for captain Harry Brook, who celebrated his 27th birthday amidst the triumph.

    After being put in to bat first, England posted a seemingly modest total of 146-9. However, their bowling attack, spearheaded by a ferocious power play performance, rendered the target insurmountable. Jofra Archer and Will Jacks orchestrated a top-order collapse, reducing Sri Lanka to a devastating 34-5 within the first six overs. The early blitz effectively decided the contest, leaving the hosts’ innings in ruins.

    Archer’s searing pace accounted for both openers, including the dismissal of the in-form Pathum Nissanka for just 9 runs. Jacks, later named Player of the Match for the third time this tournament, delivered a critical spell of 3-22, narrowly missing a hat-trick. Sri Lankan captain Dasun Shanaka mounted a lone resistance with a brisk 30 off 24 balls, but his dismissal to Adil Rashid extinguished any fleeting hope of recovery.

    The victory was set up by Phil Salt’s anchoring 62 at the top of England’s order. Despite the challenging, rain-affected pitch in Kandy, Salt’s 40-ball innings, featuring six fours and two sixes, provided the backbone of England’s total. Sri Lanka’s bowling, led by left-arm spinner Dunith Wellalage (3-26), managed to restrict the middle order, with Jacks’ 21 being the only other notable contribution.

    The comprehensive margin of victory provides England with a significant net run rate advantage in a group stage where weather interruptions, like the washed-out New Zealand-Pakistan match, could prove decisive. The result also extends England’s dominant streak to 12 consecutive wins against Sri Lanka.

  • ECCO RESPONDS TO SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS JUDGEMENT

    ECCO RESPONDS TO SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS JUDGEMENT

    The Eastern Caribbean Collective Organisation for Music Rights (ECCO) has formally acknowledged the February 19, 2026 ruling from the Saint Kitts and Nevis High Court of Justice concerning its judicial review application of the 2024 Copyright Regulations for Collective Management Organisations.

    In an official statement, ECCO expressed profound appreciation for the court’s deliberation process and specifically recognized Honourable Justice Tamara Gill’s consideration of the complex legal matter. The organization reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to judicial independence and the rule of law throughout the Eastern Caribbean region, acknowledging the judiciary’s critical function in establishing transparent forums for resolving intricate legal disputes.

    Although the initial ruling did not align with ECCO’s anticipated outcome, the organization emphasized its entitlement to pursue all available legal avenues. The court has indicated that a comprehensive written judgment containing detailed legal reasoning will be published imminently.

    ECCO confirmed that upon receipt of the full judgment, its legal representatives will conduct an exhaustive analysis of the court’s findings. The organization stressed the necessity of thoroughly examining the legal rationale before determining the optimal course of action for its membership base. ECCO reminded stakeholders that the Eastern Caribbean judicial framework provides multiple recourse mechanisms, including potential appeal to the Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal. The organization will make final determinations regarding subsequent legal steps following completion of its internal assessment process.

  • Iconic Reggae Weekend features Johnny Clarke honours

    Iconic Reggae Weekend features Johnny Clarke honours

    Jamaican music icon Johnny Clarke, whose energetic performances defined the roots-reggae era of the 1970s, is being celebrated during the Iconic Reggae Weekend from February 20-22. The celebration marks a special tribute to Clarke’s influential career and his seminal partnership with legendary producer Bunny Lee.

    The commemorative events, organized by Bunny Lee’s family, honor a musical partnership that produced an extraordinary catalog of hit singles fifty years ago. On February 20th, Clarke became the inaugural recipient of the Bunny Lee Lifetime Achievement Award during a ceremony at the Bunny Lee Museum in Duhaney Park, St. Andrew.

    Bunny Lee Jr. emphasized the appropriateness of Clarke being the first honoree of an award named for his father, who passed away in October 2020 at age 79. ‘Johnny Clarke stood among the pivotal artists who collaborated with Bunny Lee to elevate reggae into a globally powerful musical force,’ Lee Jr. told the Jamaica Observer. ‘Their 1970s partnership yielded some of Jamaican music’s most enduring compositions, including the classics None Shall Escape The Judgement and Rock With Me Baby, which garnered international acclaim.’

    Clarke’s remarkable journey saw him transition from working at Grace Kennedy in 1974 to reggae stardom with his breakthrough interpretation of Earl Sixteen’s None Shall Escape The Judgement. The unassuming artist, who was also Lee’s brother-in-law, further solidified his legacy with definitive tracks like Move Outa Babylon and African Roots under Lee’s Striker label.

    The weekend celebration extended beyond the award ceremony with significant events including the relaunch of Augustus Pablo’s historic Rockers International record store on Orange Street and an gathering at Randy’s Museum in downtown Kingston, the former home of Randy’s Records and studio.

    The Bunny Lee Museum, which opened officially one year ago in Lee’s former recording studio, houses an extensive collection of memorabilia including the producer’s flamboyant stage outfits, portraits of iconic producers Clement Dodd, Prince Buster, and Duke Reid, and instruments used by the pioneering musicians who developed the distinctive Greenwich Farm sound.

  • Human milk bank pilot possible in Jamaica

    Human milk bank pilot possible in Jamaica

    Jamaica’s Ministry of Health and Wellness has initiated a formal feasibility study for establishing the country’s first human milk bank facility. Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton confirmed to the Jamaica Observer that the Family Health Unit will examine the potential implementation of a donor milk program, possibly beginning with a pilot project in select communities.

    The proposal gained momentum following advocacy from youth attorney Benyamin Cooke, who emphasized the critical health benefits of breast milk for infants whose mothers cannot breastfeed due to medical conditions including cancer treatments, premature births, or lactation difficulties. Cooke highlighted that while formula provides basic nutrition, it lacks the disease-fighting antibodies present in human milk.

    Minister Tufton acknowledged the proposal requires careful consideration of Jamaica’s cultural landscape, noting that successful implementation would demand significant public education to address deeply ingrained biases. “There are predisposed biases against breast milk banks in our context,” Tufton stated, “but the concept of community involvement in child-rearing aligns with our historical traditions.”

    Medical professionals expressed divided perspectives on the initiative. Jheanell Condappa, an 18-year veteran midwife supervisor, strongly endorsed the concept, noting that many mothers struggle with insufficient milk production and currently resort to formula. She referenced historical “wet nursing” practices as evidence of cultural precedent for milk sharing.

    However, an anonymous midwife with equivalent experience questioned the necessity, estimating less than 2% of mothers encounter insurmountable breastfeeding challenges. She expressed skepticism about public acceptance, stating: “Some people are not going to opt for their baby to be taking someone else’s milk.”

    The ministry’s Family Health Unit outlined rigorous safety protocols that would govern the potential program, including donor screening for HIV and Hepatitis, pasteurization to eliminate pathogens, and strict hygienic storage conditions. International data indicates that with proper education, most mothers become willing to donate or use donor milk.

    Mothers interviewed revealed mixed perspectives. While some welcomed the alternative to formula, others expressed discomfort with the concept of using another woman’s milk. The global context shows over 700 milk banks operating across 60 countries, though no universal standards currently govern their operations.

    The World Health Organization and UNICEF have endorsed donor milk as the preferred alternative when mother’s own milk is unavailable, particularly for vulnerable premature infants. The Jamaican health ministry’s exploration signals a growing recognition of both the medical benefits and cultural considerations surrounding human milk banking.

  • ‘Touter’ — more than 50 years of talent

    ‘Touter’ — more than 50 years of talent

    In 1976, at just 21 years old, keyboard virtuoso Bernard “Touter” Harvey cemented his legacy by contributing to three landmark albums that would define reggae’s golden era. The young session musician from Whitfield Town, Kingston, left his indelible mark on Bob Marley and The Wailers’ ‘Rastaman Vibration,’ Bunny Wailer’s ‘Blackheart Man,’ and Burning Spear’s ‘Man In The Hills.’

    Harvey’s collaboration with these icons began even earlier, having played on Marley’s seminal ‘Natty Dread’ in 1974 and performed with The Black Disciples band on Burning Spear’s majestic ‘Marcus Garvey’ the previous year.

    In an exclusive retrospective with the Jamaica Observer, Harvey revealed the distinct creative approaches behind each project five decades later. “We operated within an incredibly creative period, though artistic boundaries were often set by the performers or producers,” Harvey recalled. “Bob Marley personally discouraged synthesizer use, yet producer Lee Perry introduced his Elka piano/string machine that became integral to ‘Rastaman Vibration.’”

    Contrasting these experiences, Harvey noted: “Jack Ruby, producing Burning Spear, granted us complete creative freedom. Conversely, Bunny Wailer arrived meticulously prepared with demo cassettes but remained open to collaborative compromise.”

    All three albums were distributed by Chris Blackwell’s Island Records, the London-based label founded in Kingston years earlier. Among them, Marley’s ‘Rastaman Vibration’ achieved greatest commercial success with radio-friendly anthems like ‘Roots, Rock, Reggae’ and ‘Who The Cap Fit.’

    Since 1974, Harvey has been integral to Grammy-winning group Inner Circle, contributing to global hits like ‘Bad Boys’ and ‘Sweat.’ Reflecting on his early accomplishments, the musician expressed pride: “Occasionally revisiting these recordings, I’m surprised by my performances. While I’ve grown musically, why alter what fans have cherished? Hearing musicians replicate my work brings profound accomplishment.”