Iran announces new closure of Strait of Hormuz amid US blockade
via SeneNews4 min read
Tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz have escalated following Iranian statements indicating a new closure of the strategic maritime passage. This announcement comes after exchanges between Tehran and Washington regarding sanctions and the blockade of Iranian ports. Initially, Iranian authorities mentioned a partial or complete reopening of the strait to commercial vessels. However, this position reversed, with Iranian armed forces now stating a new closure of the Strait of Hormuz in response to the ongoing US blockade on Iranian ports. The president of the Iranian Parliament, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, stated on social media platform X that if the US blockade continues, the Strait of Hormuz will not remain open. He also specified that the passage of ships through the strait would, in any case, require authorization from Iranian authorities, underscoring Tehran's intent to assert control over this crucial corridor for global oil traffic.
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A trial for sexual harassment has begun before the Mbour criminal court, involving O. Mbengue, a quinquagenarian merchant, accused of repeatedly raping a 14-year-old schoolgirl, A. Fall, and forcing her to take contraceptive pills after each assault. The incidents reportedly started on January 1, 2020, when A. Fall was sent by her mother to O. Mbengue's shop to retrieve a phone. The victim testified that O. Mbengue, with an accomplice, forcibly undressed and assaulted her. Following the first assault, she claimed to have seen him hide a blood-stained sheet. For nearly three years, O. Mbengue allegedly maintained control over her by giving her new mobile phones after each assault, using them to contact her, even at school, for further encounters. If her mother confiscated a phone, he would reportedly provide a new one directly at her school. A. Fall also stated that O. Mbengue forced her to swallow a contraceptive pill after each sexual act, sending an friend to buy them to prevent pregnancy. The victim's distress manifested as truancy and school expulsions. On August 22, 2022, her mother, A. Diallo, learned of the abuse, leading to a medical examination that confirmed old defloration. O. Mbengue denies the accusations, claiming he gave her phones to monitor her studies and suggesting a conspiracy by the mother due to jealousy. The prosecution has requested a 15-year prison sentence for rape, pedophilia, and abduction of a minor. O. Mbengue has been in preventive detention for
Must ReadMacky Sall's candidacy for the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations is gaining significant political and institutional support. This positive development for the former head of state is marked by a structured and widespread mobilization. Approximately 285 prominent figures have signed a declaration of support for his candidacy. This group includes seven former institutional presidents, two former Prime Ministers Amadou Bâ and Sidiki Kaba, over sixty former ministers, as well as former and current parliamentarians. Territorial elected officials and leaders of political and social organizations are also among the signatories. The declaration emphasizes that this initiative transcends political and social divisions, asserting that Sall's candidacy goes beyond partisan affiliations and represents Senegal's image and Africa's standing on the international stage. The signatories highlight Sall's extensive experience as a statesman, citing his roles as mayor, minister, Prime Minister, president of the National Assembly, and President of the Republic. They also mention his involvement in regional African institutions, including his leadership of ECOWAS and the African Union. His actions during the Covid-19 pandemic, his stances on the Russia-Ukraine crisis, and the issue of debt for Southern countries are also noted as evidence of his international engagement. The supporters believe that Sall's profile, characterized by experience, mediation, and dialogue, is well-suit
Must ReadFormer President Macky Sall is undergoing a hearing at the United Nations headquarters in New York today, April 22, 2026, as part of his candidacy to succeed António Guterres as Secretary-General. This session is a key part of the selection process and follows a series of interactive dialogues with other candidates. Sall's hearing is scheduled from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM in New York, which corresponds to 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM in Dakar and 9:00 PM to midnight in Paris. The format includes an initial statement from Sall outlining his vision for the UN and priorities for the 2027-2032 mandate, followed by a question-and-answer session with representatives from the 193 member states. Questions from civil society, submitted via video or in writing, will also be included. The session is presided over by Annalena Baerbock, in charge of the 80th session of the General Assembly. Ambassadors from member states are actively participating to evaluate candidates' diplomatic skills and mediation capabilities. Sall's hearing follows that of Rebeca Grynspan, with Michelle Bachelet and Rafael Grossi having been heard earlier in the week. Expected topics include Security Council reform, a demand from several African countries, development financing, a central theme during Sall's leadership of the African Union, and questions related to human rights and his record in Senegal. The hearing is broadcast live on UN WebTV and, while not a final vote, is considered a crucial step in the selection process.
Al-Hilal FC central defender Kalidou Koulibaly has been sent to Spain for in-depth medical examinations after sustaining a thigh injury. The injury, a grade 2 muscle tear in the quadriceps with a hematoma, occurred during a training session in preparation for an AFC Champions League match. This has already kept him off the field for recent club matches. With the King's Champions Cup final against Al-Okhdood scheduled for April 23, 2026, the medical staff decided to expedite his treatment. Koulibaly's transfer to Spain aims to precisely assess the injury's severity and determine his chances of a quick return. The Al-Hilal medical team is coordinating with experts to reduce the hematoma through intensive care and initiate an accelerated rehabilitation program. However, a grade 2 tear typically requires several weeks of rest, making his participation uncertain just 72 hours before the match. For coach Simone Inzaghi, Koulibaly's absence would be a significant blow, as the Senegalese defender plays a central role in the defensive setup. Al-Hilal, recently eliminated from continental competition, is relying on this national trophy to conclude its season. The club's decision to send Koulibaly to Spain reflects its commitment to utilizing all available resources to try and recover him in time. The final verdict is expected in the coming hours after the medical examinations in Spain.