A United States Air Force refuelling plane has crashed in western Iraq amid the ongoing military operations linked to escalating tensions with Iran.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed on Thursday that a KC-135 Stratotanker was lost during Operation Epic Fury, the U.S.-led campaign targeting Iranian military infrastructure. Officials clarified that the crash occurred in “friendly airspace” and was not caused by enemy or friendly fire.

Two aircraft were involved: one went down in western Iraq, while the other landed safely. Rescue teams were immediately deployed to locate and assist the crew. Authorities have yet to confirm casualties, urging patience as they gather information and notify service members’ families.

The incident comes amid a widening regional conflict following the February 28, 2026, U.S. and Israeli offensive on Iran, which targeted military sites, missile systems, and leadership networks. Operation Epic Fury involves thousands of troops, fighter jets, drones, and naval assets to weaken Iran’s military reach and regional influence.

In retaliation, Iran has launched missile and drone attacks on Israel, U.S. bases, and allied Gulf nations, escalating the crisis into one of the region’s most serious confrontations in years. Military officials emphasize that refuelling aircraft like the KC-135 are vital for sustaining long-range air missions, allowing fighter jets and bombers to stay airborne for extended operations.

This crash marks the fourth U.S. aircraft loss publicly reported since the conflict began, highlighting the intensity and complexity of ongoing military operations in the Middle East.

Former Super Eagles winger Victor Moses may soon end his unexpected stay in Dubai, UAE after the Nigerian government began evacuating citizens affected by escalating tensions involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Human rights lawyer Femi Falana has urged the federal government to collaborate with other nations to exert diplomatic pressure on the United States over its role in the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

He made the appeal during an appearance on the Politics Today programme on Channels Television on Thursday.

Falana condemned the actions of US President Donald Trump, accusing him of disregarding international law and United Nations resolutions.

He called on Nigeria to work with other countries to ensure compliance with international law and to encourage global powers such as Russia and China to intervene in the escalating crisis.

“President Trump has no regard and shows contempt for international law. He has withdrawn the United States from around 66 United Nations resolutions. To him, UN resolutions mean nothing,” Falana stated.

The senior advocate emphasized that Nigeria should revive its tradition of multilateral diplomacy, reminiscent of the country’s active role during the era of the Non-Aligned Movement, by coordinating with other nations to press for restraint.

“Our duty as a country, as we used to in the past, is to collaborate with other countries. In the days of non-alignment, Nigeria played a key role. We must now move swiftly to join forces with other nations to exert pressure on Mr Trump,” he said.

Falana further highlighted the need to persuade major global powers such as Russia and China to act diplomatically, noting their significant influence over Iran.

“We need to persuade China and Russia to intervene because those are the two countries that Iran will listen to,” he added.

Beyond the international dimension, Falana urged Nigeria to strengthen its internal security structures and reduce dependence on foreign powers for stability.

“Nigeria must wake up. We must learn from Iran that unless you reorganize your country, equip your armed forces and police, no imperialist nation like America can guarantee law and order in your country,” he said.

Falana also criticized Nigeria’s management of its refining capacity, questioning why the country’s state-owned refineries remain largely inactive despite billions of dollars spent on their rehabilitation.

“If we claim to have four refineries, no one is talking about them. The NNPC now relies solely on the Dangote Refinery. Is that how to run a country? After pouring billions down the drain—about $2.9 billion—on the maintenance of our four refineries, this is unacceptable,” he said.