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  • Trump says ‘we expect casualties’ after three US service members die

    Trump says ‘we expect casualties’ after three US service members die

    PALM BEACH, United States — In a series of interviews from his Florida resort, President Donald Trump addressed the ongoing military engagement with Iran, acknowledging the loss of American lives while framing the conflict as strategically beneficial. The comments came following a Pentagon announcement confirming three US service members were killed and five seriously wounded during strikes targeting the Islamic Republic.

    Speaking with NBC News, the President characterized the casualties as an anticipated consequence of military action. “We have three, but we expect casualties, but in the end it’s going to be a great deal for the world,” Trump stated. He further elaborated to the Daily Mail, referring to the fallen soldiers as “great people” and noting that such losses were “unfortunately” expected and could potentially recur.

    The operation, which has reportedly resulted in the deaths of Iran’s supreme leader and numerous high-ranking government and military figures, was described by Trump as progressing “ahead of schedule.” He revealed that communication channels between Iranian and US officials remain active, though he provided no specific details regarding these discussions.

    Contradictory remarks emerged regarding diplomatic outreach, however. While acknowledging ongoing talks in one interview, Trump told the Daily Mail that Iranian officials “want to talk, but I said you should have talked last week not this week.” The President projected the military campaign would extend approximately four weeks, citing Iran’s substantial size as a factor in the timeline, while suggesting operations could conclude sooner.

    The White House had not issued an official statement on the casualties for five hours following the initial announcement by US Central Command on Sunday morning.

  • What we know about alleged strike on Iran school

    What we know about alleged strike on Iran school

    PARIS, France — Iranian authorities have reported a devastating strike on an elementary school in the southern town of Minab, claiming over 100 fatalities and attributing the attack to the nation’s “enemies.

    The incident allegedly occurred on Saturday at the Shajare Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school in Hormozgan province, near the strategic Strait of Hormuz shipping route. Iranian state television identified the facility, while verified footage shows a damaged building adorned with colorful educational murals billowing black smoke.

    Conflicting accounts have emerged regarding the casualty figures. The Iranian Red Crescent initially reported 108 deaths, while local governor officials later revised the toll to 165 fatalities as search operations concluded.

    Both United States and Israeli military authorities have denied involvement in any strike operation. Israel’s military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Nadav Shoshani stated: “At this point not aware of an Israeli or an American strike there… We’re operating in an extremely accurate manner.”

    The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has not provided immediate official comment, though a spokesperson was quoted by The New York Times acknowledging awareness of reports concerning “civilian harm resulting from ongoing military operations” and confirming they “take these reports seriously and are looking into them.”

    Independent verification remains challenging as foreign media organizations require explicit Iranian government approval to report outside Tehran. AFP has geolocated footage to Minab but could not independently verify the nature of the site or the date the footage was filmed.

    Human rights organization Hengaw, based in Norway, has launched an investigation into the identities of the allegedly killed students. The group reported approximately 170 students were present during the school’s morning session when the incident occurred.

  • Four-time SIGMA Run champion Garfield Gordon runs with purpose

    Four-time SIGMA Run champion Garfield Gordon runs with purpose

    Jamaican distance runner Garfield Gordon has further cemented his legendary status in national road racing by securing an unprecedented fourth championship victory at the 2026 Sagicor SIGMA Run. The St. Thomas native demonstrated absolute dominance over the 5.5-kilometer course, crossing the finish line in 16 minutes and 57 seconds amidst a record-breaking field of 14,575 participants.

    Gordon’s journey from primary school running programs to four-time SIGMA champion (2020, 2023, 2024, 2026) represents a masterclass in athletic dedication. Beyond his racing accolades, Gordon maintains parallel careers as a professional massage therapist and middle-distance coach at St. George’s College, meticulously balancing pre-dawn training sessions with professional responsibilities.

    His winning strategy involved precisely calibrated effort distribution, pushing aggressively through the initial 5K segment before harnessing residual energy for the final 500 meters. By the 3K mark, Gordon had established an insurmountable lead, later attributing his unchallenged victory to rigorous preparation and strategic confidence.

    The 2026 edition carried enhanced significance through its focus on educational recovery in hurricane-affected western Jamaica. Gordon emphasized that competing for this humanitarian cause provided deeper motivation than personal achievement alone, praising Sagicor’s initiative in supporting displaced students.

    Maintaining a grueling six-day weekly regimen featuring 40-90 minute endurance runs and high-intensity interval training, Gordon’s methodology continues yielding exceptional results. The champion already anticipates upcoming competitions including the Burger King 5K and Kingston City Run while confirming intentions to defend his SIGMA title in 2027.

    For aspiring athletes, Gordon advocates holistic commitment: ‘Train with intention and compete with heart. When you’re running for something bigger than yourself, that extra meaning can push you beyond your limits.’

  • Cornwall College on course for double in ISSA rural football

    Cornwall College on course for double in ISSA rural football

    ST JAMES, Jamaica — Cornwall College has achieved a remarkable athletic feat by securing semi-final placements in both the Burger King Under-14 and Mighty Malt Under-16 divisions of the Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA) Rural Area Junior football competition. The quarterfinal stage concluded on Thursday with Cornwall demonstrating exceptional prowess across both age groups.

    Competing on their home grounds, Cornwall College delivered commanding performances to top their respective zones. The Under-14 squad secured a decisive 3-1 victory against Rusea’s High, while the Under-16 team delivered a 2-0 shutout against Old Harbour High. Both teams finished the group stage with perfect seven-point records, showcasing the institution’s football program depth.

    The semi-final qualifiers for the Under-14 division include Belair High, William Knibb Memorial, and Garvey Maceo High. Belair High claimed second position in Group One with six points after eliminating defending champions Glenmuir High in a 3-1 upset match in Mandeville. William Knibb Memorial narrowly edged Garvey Maceo for Group Two honors through superior goal difference, despite both teams finishing level on seven points.

    In Under-16 action, Cornwall College continued their dominant form following Monday’s 3-0 victory over Glenmuir High with Thursday’s 2-0 win against Old Harbour. First-half goals from Mekhi Foster and Demarco Finnikin secured their advancement. Glenmuir High rebounded with a 3-1 victory over Munro College to claim second place in Group One with six points.

    Clarendon College topped Group Two in the Under-16 category with five points despite a scoreless draw with Central High. Rusea’s High also advanced with four points after their goalless stalemate against Manchester High, who finished with three points.

    Quarterfinal Results:
    Under-14 Division:
    Cornwall College 3, Rusea’s High 1
    Belair High 3, Glenmuir High 1
    Manchester High 1, William Knibb Memorial 2
    Garvey Maceo 2, Titchfield High 0

    Under-16 Division:
    Cornwall College 2, Old Harbour High 0
    Manchester High 0, Rusea’s High 0
    Glenmuir High 3, Munro College 1
    Clarendon College 0, Central High 0

  • Arsenal corner Chelsea into submission, Man Utd climb to third

    Arsenal corner Chelsea into submission, Man Utd climb to third

    LONDON — Arsenal solidified their position atop the Premier League table with a hard-fought 2-1 victory against London rivals Chelsea, who finished Sunday’s match with ten men after yet another disciplinary lapse. The result maintains the Gunners’ five-point advantage in the title race while dealing a significant blow to Chelsea’s Champions League qualification hopes.

    The match turned on defensive performances and set-piece excellence, with center-back William Saliba opening the scoring in the 21st minute after connecting with Gabriel Magalhaes’ headed pass from a corner. Chelsea responded before halftime through an unfortunate own goal from Pedro Hincapie, who diverted Reece James’ delivery into his own net.

    Arsenal’s winner arrived just after the hour mark when Dutch defender Jurrien Timber capitalized on goalkeeper Robert Sanchez’s positioning error to head into an unguarded net from Declan Rice’s corner. This marked Arsenal’s 16th goal from corners this season, equaling the Premier League record.

    The match’s momentum shifted decisively when Pedro Neto received his marching orders for two quick bookings, becoming Chelsea’s ninth dismissal this season. Although the Blues thought they had snatched a late equalizer, it was disallowed for offside.

    Meanwhile, Manchester United continued their resurgence under interim manager Michael Carrick with a 2-1 comeback victory against Crystal Palace. After falling behind to Maxence Lacroix’s early header, United benefited from Lacroix’s sending off and subsequent penalty concession, which Bruno Fernandes converted. Fernandes then provided the assist for Benjamin Sesko’s seventh goal in eight appearances, lifting United to third place.

    In other Sunday action, Tottenham’s troubles deepened with a 2-1 defeat at Fulham, leaving them just four points above the relegation zone. Interim manager Igor Tudor criticized his team’s performance after suffering two losses in his two games in charge. Nottingham Forest also fell to a 2-1 defeat against Brighton, remaining perilously close to the bottom three.

  • Singadon dedicates heartfelt single ‘Don’t Cry’ to his son

    Singadon dedicates heartfelt single ‘Don’t Cry’ to his son

    Emerging Jamaican dancehall talent Singadon has unveiled a profoundly personal musical offering titled ‘Don’t Cry,’ creating a heartfelt dedication to his six-month-old son that transcends typical dancehall themes. The artist, born Tajay Burgess, channels paternal wisdom and emotional vulnerability in this unconventional track that explores the complexities of fatherhood and intergenerational growth.

    Crafted during his partner’s pregnancy and released through Montego Bay’s independent Love and Gratitude Recording Studio, the composition serves as both personal legacy and public manifesto. Burgess characterizes the work as ‘a tough classroom’s lessons distilled into musical form,’ addressing fundamental values including emotional intelligence, protective instincts, and moral integrity.

    The recording has generated substantial audience engagement across Jamaican airwaves, particularly resonating in St. Mary parish where listener response has prompted plans for an accompanying visual production. Singadon acknowledges the track’s gritty emotional authenticity as key to its emerging success, noting its depiction of paternal presence and aspirational betterment across generations.

    Hailing from Bath, St. Thomas, the artist developed his musical foundations through ecclesiastical participation before evolving toward dancehall experimentation. His professional moniker represents an evolution from previous attempts at naming, ultimately settling on ‘Singadon’ as a declaration of vocal mastery during his secondary education at Morant Bay High School.

    The self-described multihyphenate artist credits dancehall pioneers Vybz Kartel and Chronic Law as primary influences while cultivating diverse capabilities beyond performance. Singadon has comprehensively trained as a beat composer, audio engineer, graphic designer, and songwriter, claiming particular pride in narrative versatility and vocal adaptability.

    Despite his studio proficiency, the emerging artist acknowledges his forthcoming challenge: translating recorded artistry into live performance. Expressing confidence in his adaptive capabilities, Singadon anticipates his stage debut with assurance in his capacity to deliver compelling presentations.

  • Mystic Warrior inspires with ‘Leader’

    Mystic Warrior inspires with ‘Leader’

    Jamaican reggae artist Mystic Warrior has unveiled his powerful new single ‘Leader,’ delivering an inspirational anthem targeting youth empowerment through a unique blend of contemporary reggae and hip-hop sounds. The track serves as a motivational call to action, specifically encouraging young men to harness their inner strength and take control of their destinies.

    In an exclusive statement, the artist revealed his creative motivation: ‘I felt compelled to create this song to inspire the younger generation with positive messaging. As someone who identifies as a leader, I want to empower youth to discover that same capability within themselves.’

    Demonstrating his signature expressive vocal delivery and soulful tonal quality, Mystic Warrior has crafted a profoundly authentic composition that addresses contemporary masculine experiences. The lyrics thoughtfully examine the complex emotional landscapes, societal pressures, and personal uncertainties facing modern men while encouraging self-determination.

    The artist further elaborated on his artistic vision: ‘This musical piece aims to motivate young individuals, particularly males, to assume leadership in their personal journeys, make wise decisions, maintain authenticity, and recognize their inherent capacity for leadership in diverse forms.’

    The release has generated significant traction within the dancehall community, with enthusiasts praising the artist’s dynamic flow and compelling energetic performance. Early radio support has emerged both domestically and internationally, with audiences reportedly connecting deeply with the track’s uplifting message.

    ‘Leader’ represents the inaugural release from an ambitious larger project—a comprehensive ten-track album scheduled for debut in late 2024. Production credits primarily go to ShellaTopstar, who handled mixing and mastering duties across most recordings.

    Operating under his independent label Lee Benjamin Recordz Ltd., the Clarendon-native artist brings a decade of industry experience to this release, with previous well-received tracks including ‘Mastermind,’ ‘Dem a Rush,’ and ‘True Love.’ Mystic Warrior is currently exploring performance opportunities across multiple continents, including Europe, Canada, Caribbean nations, the United States, and African markets.

  • JCS emphasises early cancer detection, expanded screening and community support

    JCS emphasises early cancer detection, expanded screening and community support

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Marking World Cancer Day 2026 under the global theme ‘United in Unique,’ the Jamaica Cancer Society (JCS) convened a powerful assembly of survivors, medical experts, and community members at its Kingston headquarters. The event underscored a crucial dual message: while each cancer journey remains profoundly individual, collective action forms the cornerstone of effective disease management and prevention.

    The gathering served as the centerpiece of an extensive day dedicated to screening, public education, and community outreach. These initiatives were strategically designed to empower individuals with knowledge and tools for proactive health management, thereby strengthening communal resilience against cancer’s impact.

    Executive Director Roshane Reid-Koomson highlighted the heightened significance of this year’s observance, contextualizing it within Jamaica’s recent trials. ‘World Cancer Day carried amplified urgency following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa,’ she stated. ‘Cancer progression doesn’t halt for natural disasters, compelling our response to remain equally relentless. This reality intensified our mission to accelerate awareness, screening accessibility, and care provision.’

    Reid-Koomson presented sobering epidemiological data revealing cancer’s substantial burden on public health. With approximately 7,500 new diagnoses and over 4,600 fatalities recorded in 2022 alone, nearly 19,000 Jamaicans have lived with cancer diagnoses over the past five years. Gender-specific analysis showed prostate cancer dominating male cases (43.1%), followed by colorectal (13%) and lung cancers (9.4%). Among females, breast cancer accounted for 35% of new cases, with corpus uteri (13%) and cervical cancers (9.9%) following.

    These statistics reinforce the life-saving potential of routine screening and early detection—particularly critical as many patients currently receive diagnoses at advanced stages when treatment complexity increases. ‘We frequently encounter women presenting for screening only after self-detecting lumps,’ Reid-Koomson noted. ‘While we welcome their initiative, we advocate for routine annual screenings to facilitate earliest possible detection.’

    To bridge healthcare gaps, JCS is pursuing strategic expansions through equipment upgrades and community partnerships. A new mammography machine acquisition is underway, partially funded by a donor who has pledged matching contributions upon initial fundraising success. Collaborative efforts with churches, community organizations, and healthcare providers aim to decentralize services, directly reaching underserved populations.

    Reid-Koomson emphasized that sustained public engagement through donations, volunteerism, and advocacy remains indispensable for expanding service capacity. The World Cancer Day activities reflect JCS’s year-round commitment to education, screening, and patient support—a comprehensive approach summarized in the Director’s closing admonition: ‘Check it, catch it, beat it. Don’t wait. Know your body to recognize changes and act decisively.’

    The Society encourages individuals seeking screening information to contact JCS directly for details on available tests and support programs.

  • EU calls for ‘credible transition’ after killing of Iran’s Khamenei

    EU calls for ‘credible transition’ after killing of Iran’s Khamenei

    BRUSSELS, Belgium — European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has issued a urgent call for a “credible transition” in Iran following the assassination of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a joint U.S.-Israeli military operation. The unprecedented development has triggered emergency diplomatic consultations across European capitals as regional tensions escalate dramatically.

    Von der Leyen articulated a dual perspective in her assessment, characterizing the moment as both potentially transformative and dangerously volatile. “This tragedy has ignited renewed hope among the Iranian people for political transformation,” she stated in a social media declaration following intensive consultations with Middle Eastern leaders. “Simultaneously, we confront genuine risks of destabilization that could propel the entire region into an uncontrollable cycle of violence.”

    The European Union convened an extraordinary session of foreign ministers from all 27 member states—most concurrently NATO affiliates—via secure video conference to coordinate a unified response. The emergency dialogue addressed Iran’s subsequent retaliatory strikes across the Gulf region and evaluated potential security implications for European interests.

    NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe, U.S. General Alexus Grynkewich, has been actively monitoring military developments while coordinating defensive preparations with transatlantic partners. The alliance specifically highlighted concerns regarding potential threats from ballistic missile systems and unmanned aerial vehicles originating from the Middle East.

    Von der Leyen outlined specific prerequisites for regional stability, emphasizing that any credible transition must include “the complete cessation of Iran’s military nuclear initiatives and ballistic missile programs, alongside termination of destabilizing activities across all domains—air, land, and maritime.” The Commission president has engaged in crisis communications with Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and Jordan’s King Abdullah II to forge diplomatic pathways.

    EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas concurrently confirmed ongoing coordination with regional partners “experiencing the immediate impact of Iran’s military actions” to develop concrete de-escalation measures. In her statement, Kallas reflected: “Khamenei’s demise represents a watershed moment in Iranian history. While uncertainties prevail, a potential pathway has emerged toward a fundamentally different Iran—one potentially more responsive to its citizens’ aspirations.”

  • India beat West Indies to reach T20 World Cup semi-finals

    India beat West Indies to reach T20 World Cup semi-finals

    KOLKATA, India — In a high-stakes Super Eights finale at a packed Eden Gardens, Sanju Samson delivered a masterclass innings to secure India’s place in the T20 World Cup semi-finals. His explosive unbeaten 97 runs from just 50 balls propelled the defending champions to a thrilling five-wicket victory over the West Indies, setting up a decisive clash against England.

    The electrifying showdown saw India chasing a formidable target of 196 after the West Indies mounted a brutal late assault. Jason Holder (37* off 22) and Rovman Powell (34* off 19) unleashed 76 runs in an unbroken fifth-wicket partnership, hammering 70 runs in the final five overs to finish at 195-4.

    India’s response began shakily with two early wickets, but Samson’s commanding presence at the crease stabilized the innings. Partnering with captain Suryakumar Yadav (18) for a crucial 58-run third-wicket stand, and later with Tilak Varma (27 off 15), Samson anchored the chase under immense pressure. Despite losing Hardik Pandya late in the innings, India clinched victory with four balls remaining, triggering jubilant celebrations among the 67,000-strong crowd.

    The West Indies, employing strategic changes by promoting Test captain Roston Chase (40) to open alongside T20 skipper Shai Hope (32), showed initial promise. However, India’s bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah and spinner Varun Chakravarthy, claimed key wickets at critical moments. India’s fielding performance was notably subpar, with three dropped catches offering the West Indies reprieves.

    South Africa, maintaining an unbeaten tournament record, secured their semi-final berth earlier by defeating Zimbabwe. They will face New Zealand in Kolkata on Wednesday, while India advances to challenge England. The tournament culminates with the final in Ahmedabad next Sunday.