Trump vows to continue attacks on Iran
United States President Donald Trump has pledged to continue the “righteous mission” against Iran, until “all objectives are achieved”, adding there will likely be more US troop deaths in the process.
Speaking in a video posted to his Truth Social account on Sunday, Trump again framed the war against Iran as a response to an existential threat to the US, saying that “an Iranian regime armed with long-range missiles and nuclear weapons would be a dire threat to every American”.
Trump and his top officials had repeatedly made similar statements in the run-up to Saturday’s attacks, which killed Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several high-ranking members of the country’s leadership.
However, they have to date presented no evidence to support that Iran was developing a long-range missile capable of hitting the US or was anywhere close to developing a nuclear weapon.
Tehran has long denied seeking such a weapon, with experts assessing that if it did seek nuclear weapons, the development would still be several years off. The US launched its attacks alongside Israel in the middle of ongoing US-Iran talks on its nuclear programme.
Trump also referenced the three US military personnel confirmed killed on Sunday amid Iran’s regional retaliation.
“As one nation, we grieve for the true American patriots who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation, even as we continue the righteous mission for which they gave their lives,” Trump said.
“And sadly, there will likely be more before it ends,” he said. “That’s the way it is – likely be more, but we’ll do everything possible where that won’t be the case.”
He added: “But America will avenge their deaths, and deliver the most punishing blow to the terrorists who have waged war against, basically, civilisation”.
The speech marked a stark contrast to several interviews Trump had given throughout the day, in which he appeared to float diplomatic off-ramps.
“They want to talk, and I have agreed to talk, so I will be talking to them,” Trump told the Atlantic magazine, referring to what the publication described as Iran’s “new leadership”.
“They should have given what was very practical and easy to do sooner. They waited too long,” he said.
A White House official confirmed to Al Jazeera that Trump was willing to engage with Iran’s new leaders.
Earlier on Sunday, Iran announced a three-member interim leadership council to run the government in the wake of Khamenei’s killing. It includes: President Masoud Pezeshkian; the chief justice of the Supreme Court, Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei; and a member of the Guardian Council, Ayatollah Alireza Arafi.
Trump acknowledged that some of the negotiators involved in the talks with the US had since been killed.
Some analysts have argued that Iran’s new leadership will likely be wary of engaging with the Trump administration, given its track record. The US also launched attacks alongside Israel during US-Iran negotiations in June last year.
The new leadership could instead pursue a protracted conflict that could be politically damaging for Trump, some experts have said.
“Most of those people are gone,” Trump told The Atlantic. “Some of the people we were dealing with are gone, because that was a big – that was a big hit.”
In his speech on Sunday, Trump did not reference any diplomatic overtures, instead calling for regime change in Iran.
He again offered amnesty to Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) members, the Iranian military and police who “lay down” their arms. If they do not, they will face “certain death”, he said.
He also again called on “Iranian patriots who yearn for freedom to seize this moment to be brave, be bold, be heroic, and take back your country”.
He appeared to reference his threats in January to strike Iran in response to the government’s crackdown on protesters.
“I made a promise to you, and I fulfilled that promise,” Trump said. “The rest will be up to you. We’ll be there to help”.
Trump spoke as fighting continued across the region.
The US command that oversees the Middle East (CENTCOM) announced the killing of the three members of the US military earlier on Sunday, but did not provide further details. It said five others were “seriously wounded” in the operation.
The US media has reported that those killed in Iranian strikes were based in Kuwait. Iran has also launched a barrage of attacks against Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Bahrain, and Oman.
Meanwhile, at least 201 people have been killed in Iran, with 747 wounded, while at least nine have been killed and 121 wounded in Israel.
At least one person has been killed in Kuwait, three have been killed in the UAE, and two have been killed in Iraq since the escalation began.
Source- Al Jazeera
Iran confirms Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei dead after US-Israeli attacks
Iranian state media have confirmed that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed at his office in the Israeli-US attacks on Iran, following earlier reports of his killing by US and Israeli officials.
A 40-day mourning period for the longtime Iranian leader has been announced.
The Sunday confirmation comes after Iran’s Tasnim and Mehr news agencies initially reported that Khamenei remained “steadfast and firm in commanding the field”.
US President Donald Trump wrote in a post on his Truth Social platform earlier in the day that 86-year-old Khamenei was killed in the joint US-Israeli strikes, which began early on Saturday.
“He was unable to avoid our Intelligence and Highly Sophisticated Tracking Systems and, working closely with Israel, there was not a thing he, or the other leaders that have been killed along with him, could do,” Trump wrote.
“This is the single greatest chance for the Iranian people to take back their Country,” he said. “Hopefully, the IRGC [Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps] and Police will peacefully merge with the Iranian Patriots.”
While Iranian authorities have long planned for the possible killing of Khamenei in the event of a war with the US and Israel, his assassination injects new uncertainty into an unfolding conflict that has already spurred concerns that fighting could escalate and expand further.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had earlier also claimed that there were “growing signs” that Khamenei had been killed.
Additionally, the Reuters news agency, citing an unnamed senior Israeli official, had reported that Khamenei’s body had been located. Khamenei has been Iran’s supreme leader since 1989, succeeding the founder of the post-shah Iran, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, who steered Iran’s 1979 revolution.
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Tehran confirms Khamenei’s killing
Israel’s military said it has struck more than 30 targets in attacks on western and central Iran.
Iranian state media confirms the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in the US and Israel’s ongoing attacks on the country.
We are learning that Khamenei’s daughter, son-in-law, and grandson were also killed along with his top aidsUS President Donald Trump, who announced major combat operations in Iran after Israel launched missile attacks on Saturday, says the bombing will continue “uninterrupted throughout the week or, as long as necessary” to achieve his objectives.
Iranian state media say a strike on a school in southern Iran has killed at least 108 people, and that at least 201 people have been killed across 24 provinces.
Iran’s retaliatory attacks have targeted Israel and US assets in multiple Middle East countries, including Qatar, the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and Iraqi.
Several countries across the region have shut their airspace amid the exchange of attacks.
Dozens of Air Force fighter jets struck, guided by Military Intelligence, and completed just a short while ago another wave of strikes to target the ballistic missile array and air defence systems of the Iranian terror regime in western and central Iran,” the military said in a statement.
Attacks will continue on air defence installation, missile sites, military headquarters and other “regime targets” in Iran, Israel said.
Source- Aljazeera
Multi-Agency Planning Enforcement Action Conducted in Five Cays
The Informal Settlements Unit (ISU), in collaboration with key government agencies, coordinated a multi-agency enforcement exercise on Thursday, 5 February 2026, at Block and Parcel 60503/17 in the Five Cays area.
The exercise was led by the Planning Department, pursuant to its statutory authority under the Physical Planning Act to address unauthorised development. The ISU coordinated the operation, with support provided by the Crown Land Unit and the Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force, while the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force ensured security throughout the activity.
The enforcement action formed part of a Public Private Partnership initiative between the Turks and Caicos Islands Government and private landowners. The registered owners of the land would have sought the state’s assistance to issue copies of Section 58 Enforcement Notices on unlawful structures identified on the parcel. The subject parcel comprises approximately 25 acres extending across Millennium Highway.
During the exercise, a total of fifty-four (54) copies of the Enforcement Notice were issued on structures located on the parcel. Notices were affixed to structures and served on persons found to be occupying illegal developments.
The Informal Settlements Unit reiterates that these coordinated enforcement exercises form part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to uphold planning regulations, protect property rights, and promote orderly and lawful development. Persons undertaking construction are reminded that development without the requisite planning approvals is unlawful and subject to enforcement action.
WEATHER FORECAST FOR THE TURKS AND CAICOS
GENERAL SITUATION: A weakening stationary front lingering across the Central Bahamas may spark a few passing showers to parts of the Turks and Caicos Islands today.
SPECIAL WARNINGS: There is a moderate to high risk of rip currents for Atlantic exposed shorelines due to swells. Swimmers are urged to remain on shore on Atlantic beaches.
TCI Weather Report on RTC.
ALL AREAS
WEATHER: Partly sunny with isolated showers possible this afternoon. Mostly fair tonight.
WINDS: Northeast to east at 5 to 15 knots
SEAS: Caicos Bank – 2 to 4 feet; Atlantic – 3 to 5 feet, building up to 7 feet in northerly swells offshore
DAYTIME HIGH TEMPERATURE 82°F 28°C
OVERNIGHT LOW TEMPERATURE 70°F 21°C
SUNSET: 05:47 PM
NEXT LOW TIDE: 02:36 PM (0.4 FT)
NEXT HIGH TIDE: 08:38 PM (2.1 FT)
EXTENDED FORECAST: The frontal boundary will gradually weaken and dissipate by late Thursday, allowing high pressure and drier air to rebuild across the Turks and Caicos Islands. Expect mainly sunny skies and dry conditions through the weekend. Temperatures will steadily rise each day, peaking by Sunday, with warm days, comfortable nights, and overall pleasant weather anticipated.
THURSDAY: Isolated showers possible. Partly sunny to sunny, with a high near 82°F (28°C).
THURSDAY NIGHT: Fair, with a low around 72°F (22°C).
WINDS: Easterly at 5 to 15 knots
SEAS: Caicos Bank – 2 to 4 feet; Atlantic – 3 to 5 feet, building up to 7 feet in northeasterly swells offshore
SUNRISE: 06:16 AM
SUNSET: 05:48 PM
LOW TIDE: 02:42 AM (0.3 FT) 03:11 PM (0.3 FT)
HIGH TIDE: 08:58 AM (2.3 FT) 09:23 PM (2.3 FT)
FRIDAY: Isolated showers possible. Partly sunny to sunny, with a high near 84°F (29°C).
FRIDAY NIGHT: Mostly fair, with a low around 73°F (23°C).
WINDS: East to southeast at 10 to 15 knots
SEAS: Caicos Bank – 1 to 3 feet; Atlantic – 2 to 4 feet
SUNRISE: 06:16 AM
SUNSET: 05:48 PM
LOW TIDE: 03:32 AM (0.3 FT) 03:32 PM (0.3 FT)
HIGH TIDE: 09:37 AM (2.2 FT) 10:10 PM (2.4 FT)
FORECASTER: H. HAMILTON
BUILDING A SAFER TRANSPORT SYSTEM — OPPORTUNITY FOR BELONGERS
The Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands is aware of the ongoing public discussion surrounding the enforcement actions taken against illegal jitney operations. We recognise that for many residents — particularly working people and families — these services have played an important role in meeting daily transportation needs.
However, the recent enforcement measures reflect the Government’s responsibility to uphold road safety, passenger safety, regulatory compliance, and fairness within the transport sector. The unsafe transportation of passengers in unlicensed and unauthorised vehicles presents serious risks to both commuters and other road users.
TCIG is developing a comprehensive Bus Transport Policy aimed at establishing a safe, affordable, and efficient public transportation system across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
This policy is designed to:
• Support working residents in travelling to and from work reliably
• Facilitate the smooth movement of people within and between communities
• Reduce congestion on our roads
• Improve road and passenger safety
• Provide clear identification of authorised public transport operators
• Introduce appropriate regulation and oversight of transport services
• Transition from the current ad-hoc arrangement to a formal, structured public transport network
In the interim, the Government reminds the public that licensed transport options already exist under the current regulatory framework. These include properly licensed taxis and Community Cab services operated by individuals holding valid licences under Part IV of the Road Traffic Act.
TCIG encourages Turks and Caicos Islanders to view the Community Cab category as an opportunity. It provides a lawful avenue for Belongers to participate in the public transport sector, earn income, and contribute to a safer, more structured transportation system. Those who are currently operating outside of the legal framework are encouraged to regularise their operations and take advantage of the existing provisions available to them.
TCIG acknowledges that enforcement actions may result in short-term inconvenience for some members of the public. Nevertheless, unregulated operations cannot serve as a sustainable or lawful solution to the country’s transportation challenges. The Government remains focused on delivering a transport system that is safe, equitable, and aligned with national development goals.
Stakeholder engagement and public consultation will continue as the formal transport framework is finalised to ensure that it reflects the needs of our communities.
The Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands remains committed to implementing a transportation solution that strengthens infrastructure, safeguards passengers, supports economic participation, and advances the long-term development of our nation.
Operation Safe Passage -Parents Be Aware
During the second week of Operation Safe Passage, the Traffic Enforcement Unit of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) is once again reminding parents that your child’s welfare is your responsibility.
Parents, you are urged to be fully aware of the individuals you are hiring to transport your children to and from school.
Today’s operation was led by ag Insp Damien Mitchell and included Constables Dacliche
Clervil, Ronaldo Scafe and Raheem Watson and occurred in the vicinity of the Five Cays intersection.
Officers stopped two unlicensed public service vehicles operating school transportation. The drivers who were stopped during the operation claimed they were transporting relatives.
Both vehicles were found to be dangerously overcrowded, with children sitting on other children, no seat belts and seats over-assigned.
Their vehicles were impounded.
Under the Children (Care and Protection) Act 2020, officers have a mandatory duty to act in the best interest of the child. While parents are ultimately responsible for ensuring the safe passage of their children, the Force remains guided by the paramountcy principle of child welfare.
Additionally, under the Road Traffic Act 13:01 Section 45 (Loading and overcrowding vehicles) (3) No vehicle shall carry a greater number of persons than it is licensed to carry. (4) Any person who contravenes the provisions of this section commits an offence.
Officers also had cause to issue tickets for a range of offences, including obscene language, carrying more persons than licensed to carry, permitting a child under 14 for riding a vehicle without a seatbelt (in several instances, children were seated on the middle console of vehicles), failing to keep as far left as possible, and excessive tinting of windows.
A male driver who had been warned on numerous occasions last year to remove illegal window tints was again found in violation.
Each time officers previously stopped the vehicle and instructed the driver to remove the tints, darker tints were subsequently reinstalled. Today, that driver was issued a ticket for illegal tint.
The Force also wishes to remind the public that aggressive behavior, threatening language, cursing at police officers, or attempting to obstruct officers in the lawful execution of their duties are criminal offences and will result in charges.
We remain committed to safeguarding children and ensuring that all transportation operators comply with the law.
Parents are encouraged to verify that any person transporting their child is properly licensed and authorized.
Towing trucks were kept busy as the Police operation went into day two with twenty eight tickets issued.
Operation Safe Passage on the way in TCI
Operation Safe Passage officially commenced with a soft launch on Monday, 9 February, targeting the dangers associated with unlicensed public service vehicles and related road traffic offences.
The operation was initiated in response to growing concerns about passengers, particularly children, being transported in unlicensed vehicles, including instances where children were observed standing along roadways flagging down these vehicles. Such practices pose serious risks to public safety.
The aim of Operation Safe Passage is to detect, disrupt, and deter the operation of unlicensed public service vehicles while addressing associated road traffic and criminal offences.
Key objectives include identifying and stopping vehicles suspected of operating as unlicensed public service vehicles; enforcing Road Traffic legislation relating to licensing, insurance,
vehicle fitness, and driver compliance; removing offending vehicles from circulation through seizure and impoundment; detecting and administering the law as it relates to immigration and other criminal offences encountered during the operation; and supporting a visible, intelligence- led policing presence.
On Day One, officers successfully conducted vehicle checks and impounded several vehicles.
Day Two, illegal operators adopted new tactics. Upon sighting police presence, suspected operators altered their mode of operation. Vehicle Check Points (VCPs) were established, led by the Traffic Enforcement Unit and including the Highway Patrol; however, suspected illegal operators dropped off passengers before reaching checkpoints, resulting in groups of passengers dispersing on foot.
On day three, officers observed increased coordination between drivers and passengers, with suspected operators knowing passengers by name and vice versa.
While this may appear harmless as a passenger, alerting a driver to your name and home address, especially when you do not know them, is extremely dangerous. This tactic can have serious and potentially harmful consequences for passengers.
Despite these efforts to evade enforcement, twelve vehicles were impounded based on supporting evidence gathered.
While public sentiment has been mixed, the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force has adopted a zero-tolerance approach to illegal transport operations, and all enforcement actions undertaken during Operation Safe Passage remain fully within the remit of the law.
Operation Safe Passage remains ongoing as we continue to work collaboratively to enhance roadsafety and address illegal transport practices across the islands.
NATIONAL YOUTH AWARDS 2026 CELEBRATES EXCELLENCE AND ACHIEVEMENT OF TCI YOUTH
The Department of Youth Affairs proudly hosted the second biennial National Youth Awards on Saturday, 7 February 2026, bringing together Cabinet Members, dignitaries, awardees, students, parents, well-wishers, and members of the media for a grand black-tie ceremony dedicated to celebrating the outstanding achievements of young people across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
With an audience of over 200 attendees, the formal event shone a national spotlight on youth who continue to make exceptional contributions within their communities and respective fields. A total of 31 awards were presented to deserving young individuals and organisations in recognition of their talent, leadership, service, and innovation.
The evening featured a number of distinguished highlights, including a flawlessly executed Flag Parade by the TCI Cadet Corps, musical performances by the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force Band and the Provision Band, and a captivating saxophone performance by Youth in Performing Arts Award winner, Mr. Deangelo McLeod. The ceremony was expertly guided by hosts Ms. Shakiah Lewis and Mr. Ashley Brooks, whose professionalism and charisma ensured a smooth and engaging programme.
Each awardee received a handcrafted trophy designed by local artisan Mr. Stanford Handfield, reflecting the culture, creativity, and dedication embodied by the nation’s youth. Throughout the evening, video features showcased the various initiatives and programmes spearheaded by the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, highlighting continued investments in youth development across the islands.
The ceremony was further honoured by remarks from Her Excellency the Governor, the Honourable Premier, and the Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, Honourable Rachel Taylor, each commending the awardees and reaffirming the Government’s commitment to empowering young people.
In her address, Honourable Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, stated: “Tonight, we celebrate the extraordinary talent, resilience, and dedication of our young people. These awardees represent the very best of the Turks and Caicos Islands, and their achievements remind us that when we invest in our youth, we invest in the future of our nation. The Government remains steadfast in its commitment to creating opportunities that empower every young person to thrive.”
2026 National Youth Award Recipients
Youth in Education – Mia-Lionelle Henry
Youth in Sports (Senior) – Deajah Smith
Youth in Sports (Junior) – Carmelo Cartwright
Youth in Entrepreneurship – Wayne Gardiner
Youth in Art and Culture – Tinell Garland
Youth in Performing Arts – Deangelo McLeod
Youth in Literary Arts – Jeffca Forbes
Youth in Religion – Onilia Richards
Environmental Stewardship Award – Luis Serpas
Youth in Health and Wellness – Maya Saunders
Youth in Media – Zoya Faessler
Youth Influencer – Ashad Bain
Youth in Agriculture – Tevin Ramsey
Young Professional – Arnelle Taylor-Hall
Youth in Community Service – A’Janae Robinson
Youth in Innovation and STEM – Myah Audae Simpson
Youth in Cosmetology and Barbering – Harolyn Forbes
Youth Ally – Charvis Ferguson
Personal Triumph – Jermaine Williams Jr.
Young Artisan / Skilled Trade – Imran Hoza
Youth in Tourism – Compton Clarke
Unsung Hero – Kenson Odena
Premier’s Award – Chelsea Been
Youth Organisation – Key Club
Corporate Award – Graceway Communities
Stalwart in Youth Development (Providenciales) – Roxann Wake Forbes
Stalwart in Youth Development (North Caicos) – Reniko Taylor
Stalwart in Youth Development (Middle Caicos) – Brieanna Forbes
Stalwart in Youth Development (South Caicos) – Camiko Lewis
Stalwart in Youth Development (Grand Turk) – Shakiah Lewis
Stalwart in Youth Development (Salt Cay) – Enrique Dickenson
Unity Through Excellence Award – Bereniece Dickenson Martinez
The Department of Youth Affairs extends sincere gratitude to all partners, sponsors, volunteers, performers, presenters, and supporters who contributed to the planning and successful execution of this national event. Appreciation is also extended to those who tuned in via social media and radio broadcasts.
Members of the public who were unable to attend are invited to re-watch the full live broadcast on the Turks and Caicos Islands Government Facebook Page. The official National Youth Awards Booklet may also be accessed online for detailed information on nominees and award categories at: https://online.pubhtml5.com/kvhar/sgga/.
The National Youth Awards continues to stand as a beacon of inspiration, encouraging young people throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands to pursue excellence, serve their communities, and realise their full potential.
Dr. Dre, Dionne Warwick named American Music Honors recipients
Dr. Dre and Dionne Warwick will be honored at the Bruce Springsteen Center for American Music's American Music Honors.
This year's other honorees include Patti Smith, The E Street Band and the Doors.
Launched in 2023, the American Music Honors recognizes entertainers whose contributions have a lasting impact on the music industry.
"The artists we're honoring this year didn't just shape popular music—they helped define it," Robert Santelli, founding executive director of the Bruce Springsteen Center for American Music, said. "Their work reflects the creativity, risk-taking, and cultural exchange that sit at the heart of American music, and it's a privilege to celebrate their legacies."
At the fourth annual event, taking place at Monmouth University in New Jersey on April 18, Springsteen will present Warwick with her honor. Producer Jimmy Iovine will represent for Dr. Dre.
Tickets go on sale March 18.