International

Sheinbaum Urges Mexico to ‘Jealously’ Guard Sovereignty at Air Force Anniversary

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Tuesday underscored the need for the country to “jealously” safeguard its national sovereignty and highlighted the historic role of the Armed Forces in upholding that patriotic duty.

Speaking at a ceremony marking the 111th anniversary of the Mexican Air Force at the Santa Lucía air base on the outskirts of Mexico City, the president warned that threats to the nation’s independence have not always come from abroad.

“Mexico must jealously protect its sovereignty, because throughout history the threats to our independence have not only come from outside, but also from those who opened the door to foreign interference,” she said.

Sheinbaum also emphasized the Air Force’s closeness to the public and its involvement in civil assistance missions. “It is not a distant institution; it is one that is close, deeply rooted in the people’s sentiment,” she stated.

The president added that the tribute reaffirms the commitment to “always serve the people, protect national sovereignty, and honor the history that gives us identity.”

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The Mexican Air Force traces its origins to 1915 during the Revolution and since 1944 has held constitutional status as an armed force. It also took part in World War II with Squadron 201 in the Pacific, one of the milestones that shaped its institutionalization and prestige in the country.

For his part, Defense Secretary Ricardo Trevilla Trejo defended the Armed Forces’ role as guarantors of the pillars of the state, saying that “integrity, independence and sovereignty” are foundations that sustain the nation’s viability and must be protected by military institutions.

The general also highlighted the international dimension of defense cooperation, particularly with the United States. “The bond we maintain with the United States Department of War through its Northern Command is solid and strong,” he said, adding that it is based on shared values such as “honor, loyalty, respect and patriotism.”

International

Oil prices surge again as Middle East tensions persist

Oil prices climbed again on Friday for a second consecutive session, as markets remained concerned about a prolonged conflict in the Middle East with no tangible diplomatic progress.

North Sea Brent crude for May delivery rose 4.22% to close at $112.57 per barrel.

Meanwhile, U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) approached the $100 mark, settling at $99.64, up 5.46%.

The decision by U.S. President Donald Trump to delay by ten days his ultimatum for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz failed to reassure market participants.

“It means there will be ten additional days of disruptions in the Middle East for crude and refined product flows,” said Andy Lipow, of Lipow Oil Associates.

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“For prices to come down, a resolution to the conflict is necessary,” Lipow added. “And even in the event of a ceasefire, it is not certain that Iran would allow oil shipments to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.”

International

Young Spanish Woman Receives Euthanasia After Legal Battle, Sparking Debate

A 25-year-old Spanish woman, Noelia Castillo, received euthanasia on Thursday following a prolonged legal dispute with her father.

She passed away at a care center in Sant Pere de Ribes, about 40 kilometers from Barcelona, where she had been living for some time, according to Spanish media reports.

In an interview broadcast a day earlier on Antena 3, Castillo expressed her exhaustion after enduring prolonged suffering. She indicated that her decision was influenced by a combination of personal circumstances and health-related challenges, including family conflicts and a condition of paraplegia following a previous incident that left her with lasting physical consequences.

Spain legalized euthanasia in 2021, becoming one of the few countries that allow patients under strict conditions to seek medical assistance to end their lives in order to avoid what the law defines as unbearable suffering.

The case has reignited debate in Spain over the ethical, legal, and family dimensions surrounding euthanasia, as well as the broader issue of support for individuals in vulnerable situations.

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International

Over 300 U.S. Troops Wounded Since Start of Iran Conflict, CENTCOM Says

More than 300 U.S. service members have been injured since the start of the conflict with Iran on February 28, the United States Central Command confirmed on Friday.

“Since the beginning of Operation Epic Fury, approximately 303 U.S. service members have been wounded. The vast majority of these injuries are minor, and 273 troops have already returned to duty,” said U.S. Navy Captain Tim Hawkins.

A U.S. official, speaking on condition of anonymity to AFP, indicated that 10 American troops remain seriously injured.

According to the latest figures, an additional 13 U.S. service members have been killed since the conflict began, including seven in the Gulf region and six in Iraq.

Meanwhile, Iran’s armed forces warned on Friday that hotels hosting U.S. troops in the region could be considered legitimate military targets.

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“When U.S. forces enter a hotel, from our perspective that hotel becomes American,” said armed forces spokesperson Abolfazl Shekarchi in remarks broadcast on state television.