US Secretary of War criticizes European allies over Strait of Hormuz commitment
via Business News3 min read
US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth expressed frustration on Friday, April 24, 2026, regarding the insufficient commitment of several European countries to securing the Strait of Hormuz. Hegseth stated that the United States could no longer bear the burden of operations in this strategic area alone, emphasizing that Europeans "need the Strait of Hormuz much more than we do." He urged them to "talk less" and become more actively involved, particularly militarily and navally. The American administration seeks tangible engagement from its allies. Reuters reported that internal Pentagon discussions include potential measures against certain NATO countries deemed uncooperative in Iran-related operations. These options could involve increased diplomatic pressure and more significant political decisions as Washington aims to redefine burden-sharing within the alliance. Spain is specifically mentioned, having refused to allow the use of its military bases and airspace for American operations against Iran, including strategic facilities like the Rota naval base and Mor贸n air base. A Pentagon document reportedly considers retaliatory measures against Spain, including unprecedented options within NATO. The Spanish government has defended its stance, asserting it acts in accordance with international law and remains a reliable ally, while declining to engage in military escalation. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical point for global energy trade, with a significant portion of seaborne oil t
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Business News.
An investigation into the vandalism of graves belonging to martyrs and figures of the Tunisian national movement at Djellaz cemetery has led to the arrest of a suspect. The judiciary aims to clarify the circumstances and motivations behind the desecration, which has caused widespread emotion across the country. A judicial source reported on Thursday, July 23, 2026, that the Public Prosecutor's Office at the Tunis Court of First Instance ordered a judicial inquiry on Tuesday, July 21, after marble tomb plaques were damaged in the Leaders' Square of Djellaz cemetery. Investigations quickly identified and apprehended the alleged perpetrator on the same day. The case has been transferred to the sub-directorate of criminal affairs within the Judicial Police Directorate for further inquiry into the circumstances and motivations. The desecration was revealed by political officials, including former deputy Badreddine Gammoudi, who stated that several graves in the Martyrs' Square, including those of assassinated leaders Mohamed Brahmi and Chokri Bela茂d, as well as Ahmed Ben Brahim, Salah Ben Youssef, and Ahmed Tlili, were vandalized. The Popular Current party condemned the "barbaric attack" as a "crime" against symbols of national history, urging authorities to identify those responsible and release investigation results. The party noted the acts occurred days before Republic Day and on the eve of the thirteenth anniversary of Mohamed Brahmi's assassination on July 25. Sarra Brahmi,
Rached Ghannouchi's defense committee issued a statement on Thursday, July 23, 2026, expressing alarm over the former Parliament Speaker and Ennahdha movement president's health. His lawyers report a "critical degradation" in his condition, stating he suffered a severe malaise and fainted last Friday in detention. The committee strongly condemns the administrative and judicial authorities' refusal to grant visit requests from his lawyers and family, calling it "total opacity" and a "flagrant violation of the law and fundamental prisoner rights." They emphasize that the right to communicate with counsel and family is a basic guarantee, especially given his concerning medical state. The lawyers hold Tunisian authorities fully responsible for his physical integrity and health, recalling a UN decision that deemed his detention arbitrary and called for his immediate release and an investigation into reported abuses. This alert follows earlier concerns raised by the Ennahdha movement on April 30, when the party reported an "acute" deterioration in his health, leading to an emergency transfer from his cell to a hospital. Ennahdha highlighted his vulnerability due to advanced age and chronic illnesses requiring continuous medical care and family support, reiterating that his "natural place is at home." They cited UN experts' opinion 63/2025, which found the charges against him related to his freedom of expression and lacking factual and legal basis. Arrested on April 20, 2023, Rached
Tunisian President Ka茂s Sa茂ed has granted a presidential pardon to several individuals convicted by the justice system, coinciding with the 69th anniversary of the Republic's proclamation. Among those reportedly benefiting from this measure are former presidential candidate Ayachi Zammel and former president of the Tunisian Football Federation FTF, Wadii Jari. Ayachi Zammel, a former deputy and candidate in the 2024 presidential election, had been convicted in cases related to electoral sponsorships. His arrest, shortly before the presidential election, drew significant reactions, with supporters alleging judicial pressure and authorities asserting judicial independence. Wadii Jari, who led the FTF for several years, faced legal proceedings concerning his management of the sports body. His incarceration also fueled debate on the governance of Tunisian football and the accountability of sports leaders. This presidential pardon, a recognized constitutional power of the head of state, occurs during a symbolic national commemoration. The decision to include these two prominent figures may reignite discussions about the balance between justice, politics, and executive power. As of now, no detailed official communication has specified the complete list of beneficiaries or the exact terms of the pardon's implementation.