Global energy markets are in freefall after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a breakthrough deal with Iran to end the war and completely reopen the vital Strait of Hormuz.

​In immediate response to the diplomatic breakthrough, Brent crude—the global oil benchmark—dropped sharply by 4.7% to $83.24 (£61.94) a barrel. Financial markets reacted with a massive sigh of relief, sending shares in Asia and Europe jumping as geopolitical tensions eased.

​The historic agreement was reached with the help of Pakistan, which has served as a key mediator throughout the conflict. According to the Prime Minister of Pakistan, the United States and Iran are scheduled to formally sign a memorandum of understanding in Switzerland this Friday. Trump further confirmed on Sunday that the U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports would end, and promised that the Strait of Hormuz would be open “toll free.”

​The resolution comes after a devastating three-month disruption to the global economy. The world has lost millions of barrels of oil and gas supply since the war closed the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint that handles a fifth of the world’s total oil and liquefied natural gas supplies.

Relief is expected to materialize over the coming weeks. According to Iran’s semi-official Mehr news agency, the draft deal calls for reopening the Strait of Hormuz within 30 days under Iranian arrangements, paving the way for a full restoration of global energy trade.

BREAKING: Notorious Bandit Leader Reportedly Killed During Failed School Abduction Attempt in Kogi

A notorious bandit leader identified as Ibrahim Baccujo has reportedly been killed during a failed attempt to abduct schoolchildren in Kogi State, according to intelligence sources.

Security reports indicate that Baccujo was linked to several kidnapping operations along the Kwara-Kogi axis and had long been on the radar of security agencies over his alleged involvement in banditry and violent crimes across the region.

Sources familiar with the operation disclosed that the suspected gang leader met his end during a botched abduction attempt targeting schoolchildren in Kogi State a few days ago. Details surrounding the incident remain sketchy, while security authorities are yet to release an official statement on the development.

The reported death of the notorious bandit has generated relief among residents of communities affected by kidnapping activities in parts of Kwara and Kogi States, where criminal gangs have operated for years.

Security stakeholders have described the development as a significant setback for criminal networks operating within the North-Central region, noting that sustained intelligence-driven operations are yielding positive results in the fight against insecurity.

Residents have continued to urge security agencies to intensify efforts to dismantle remaining kidnapping syndicates and restore lasting peace to affected communities.

The development comes amid ongoing operations by security forces to combat banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of violent crimes across the country.

More details are expected as security authorities provide further updates on the incident.

Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has condemned the recent wave of xenophobic attacks against African migrants in South Africa, describing the incidents as a threat to the spirit of unity and brotherhood on the continent.

Speaking at a public event, Diri expressed concern over the growing hostility towards foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, stressing that such actions undermine the ideals of Pan-Africanism and regional cooperation that African leaders have worked hard to promote.

The governor urged African countries to strengthen their commitment to solidarity, noting that challenges facing one nation should be met with collective support rather than division. He emphasized that mutual respect and cooperation remain essential for the continent’s progress.

Diri’s remarks come amid renewed concerns over attacks targeting migrants in South Africa. Recent reports indicate that several foreign nationals have been displaced by anti-immigrant violence, while Mozambique confirmed the deaths of some of its citizens during the unrest.

The incidents have drawn reactions from governments, human rights groups, and regional organizations, with growing calls for stronger measures to protect migrants and prevent further violence.

As tensions continue to attract international attention, Diri called on African leaders and citizens alike to promote peaceful coexistence and preserve the bonds that unite nations across the continent.