Global Business Today
WORLD IN BRIEF: Trump Eyes Hormuz Tolls, Zambia Declares Fuel Emergency
By: Amarachi Okonkwo
US President Donald Trump has suggested Washington could impose tolls on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz following the war with Iran, arguing that the United States should benefit from securing the strategic waterway.
He dismissed the idea of Iran collecting transit fees and proposed US control of any future charging system. The strait handles about 20 percent of global oil and gas shipments and lies within Iranian and Omani waters, raising questions about the feasibility of such a proposal.
Israel intensifies strikes across Lebanon
Israel has expanded its military operations in southern Lebanon, carrying out fresh air and drone strikes on towns and areas near Beirut previously considered relatively secure. Lebanese authorities report multiple casualties, including deaths from targeted vehicle strikes. Infrastructure such as bridges has also been hit, as Israel seeks to restrict movement in the south amid a widening ground offensive launched earlier in March.
Read Also:
Ukraine targets Russian Black Sea energy hub
Ukraine has struck key Russian energy infrastructure in Novorossiysk, a major Black Sea oil export hub. Ukrainian officials said the attack hit a warship and drilling platform, while Russian authorities confirmed injuries and damage. Moscow also claimed its air defences intercepted dozens of drones during the assault. The strike reflects Kyiv’s ongoing strategy to disrupt Russia’s energy revenues.
Iran-aligned groups escalate attacks on Israel
Iran-backed factions, including Hezbollah and Yemen’s Houthi movement, have launched coordinated missile and drone strikes against Israel. The groups said the attacks targeted military and strategic sites in coordination with Tehran. Israeli authorities confirmed casualties from earlier Iranian strikes, including deaths in the northern city of Haifa, underscoring the widening regional scope of the conflict.
UK reviews Kanye West entry over controversy
The UK government is reviewing whether US rapper Kanye West (Ye) should be allowed entry ahead of a planned festival appearance in London. The review follows renewed backlash over past antisemitic remarks and controversial merchandise. Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the situation as “deeply concerning,” while critics argue entry approval would send the wrong message. Officials can refuse entry if deemed not in the public interest.
AFRICA
Zambia declares fuel emergency amid supply crisis
Zambia has declared a fuel supply emergency as disruptions linked to the Iran conflict strain imports and drive up prices. Long queues have formed at fuel stations, with reduced economic activity reported. Authorities have suspended certain fuel taxes to ease pressure, while analysts warn that many African countries could face similar energy shocks due to global supply constraints.
Somalia prepares for first offshore oil drilling
Somalia is set to begin its first offshore oil drilling campaign after successful seismic surveys identified promising reserves. A Turkish-operated vessel is expected to arrive soon, marking what officials describe as a historic milestone for the country’s energy sector. However, concerns remain over governance, security, and long-term resource management.
Burkina Faso rejects human rights report
Burkina Faso has dismissed a Human Rights Watch report alleging that more than 1,800 civilians have been killed since the military took power. The report attributes most of the deaths to government forces and allied militias, alongside Islamist insurgent activity. Authorities have rejected the claims, amid ongoing tensions over accountability and security in the country.
Seven Eritrean footballers fail to return after match
Seven members of Eritrea’s national football team have failed to return home after an international fixture in southern Africa. The incident adds to a growing pattern of athletes seeking asylum abroad, driven by claims of repression in Eritrea allegations the government denies. The development is a setback for the national team following recent competitive progress.
