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A significant generational divide has emerged among conservatives at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Texas, as the group's leaders plead for unity ahead of a challenging midterm election year for Republicans. The divide centers on the US war with Iran, with younger conservatives expressing disappointment and even 'betrayal' over Donald Trump's launch of strikes against Iran.Younger conservatives argue that Trump's actions run counter to his campaign pledges to oppose foreign entanglements. In contrast, older conservatives are looking past Trump's campaign criticism of military action, arguing that the war in Iran is a pragmatic act forced by threats to the US.The conference, usually a place of optimism, was marked by anxiety over the Iran war, with attendees debating the direction of the Maga movement. The absence of Trump, who is apparently consumed with the war in Iran, was also notable.Meanwhile, Iran has accused the US of plotting a ground assault while publicly seeking talks, as the war enters its second month. The conflict has killed thousands of people and caused significant disruptions to global energy supplies.In related news, US lawmakers are reacting to reports that the Pentagon is preparing for ground operations in Iran, with some expressing concerns about the objectives and execution of such operations.

Bath Rugby demonstrated their impressive squad depth with a thrilling comeback victory against Sale Sharks. Despite resting several key players, including Finn Russell and Ben Spencer, Bath conjured up two tries in the final quarter to clinch a bonus-point win.The match, played in difficult, windswept conditions, was an entertaining affair that could have gone either way. However, it was Alfie Barbeary's late try that sealed the win for Bath, putting his side only a point behind the leaders, Northampton.Kepu Tuipulotu, a 20-year-old hooker, was instrumental in the win, breaking on the left touchline and sending a delightful kick downfield for Bernard van der Linde to gather and score in the 62nd minute. This try was converted to level the scores at 26-26.Tuipulotu's performance was praised by Bath's head of rugby, Johann van Graan, who described him as “one of the most explosive players I’ve coached” with “huge potential”.Sale Sharks, missing several key players due to injury, were unable to capitalize on their strong start. Their director of rugby, Alex Sanderson, expressed his frustration, stating, “I’m crestfallen. I’m just gutted for the amount of effort that the lads put in”.The win keeps Bath in contention for a top-four spot, while Sale Sharks' hopes are all but extinguished. Bath will now look ahead to their Champions Cup last-16 home tie against Saracens on Saturday.

The war in Iran has sent shockwaves through the UK economy, causing gilt yields to surge to their highest levels since the 2008 global financial crisis. This increase in borrowing costs has significant implications for Chancellor Rachel Reeves' fiscal policy, potentially eroding the £23bn in 'headroom' she had built up against her fiscal rules.Reeves had hoped that this cushion would allow her to focus on tackling inflation and stimulating growth, but with oil prices up 50% since the onset of the war, investors are now expecting higher inflation and interest rates. As a result, the government's cost of borrowing is set to rise, impacting its ability to fund public spending.The yield on 10-year gilts has jumped to nearly 5%, pushing up the cost of borrowing and forcing Reeves to reconsider her spending plans. This development has also raised concerns about the UK's economic fragility and the potential for a Labour leadership contest to be triggered after the May local elections.Economists warn that the chancellor has probably already lost a third to half of her headroom due to the combination of higher inflation, weaker employment, and surging gilt yields. The situation is further complicated by the UK's high debt levels and reliance on global markets, leaving little room for maneuver for any future government.The implications of this crisis extend beyond Reeves, raising questions about the economic pitch of any potential steward of the economy, whether from Labour or other parties. As Angela Rayner considers John Healey as a potential chancellor, the need for a carefully plotted economic policy that balances growth and fiscal responsibility has become increasingly urgent.

Véron Mosengo-Omba, the general secretary of the Confederation of African Football (Caf), has resigned after repeated calls for his removal and at a turbulent time for African football. His departure comes amid a crisis of confidence in the organisation's leadership, largely due to the decision to strip Senegal of the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) title and allegations of corruption.Mosengo-Omba, 66, said he was retiring but his exit follows a period of intense criticism of his tenure, including accusations of creating a toxic workplace culture at Caf. An investigation into staff complaints had previously cleared him of wrongdoing. He is of Congolese origin but a Swiss citizen and a former Fifa employee.In a statement, Mosengo-Omba said: 'After over 30 years of an international professional career dedicated to promoting an ideal form of football that brings people together, educates, and creates opportunities for hope, I have decided to step down from my position as secretary general of Caf to devote myself to more personal projects.'He expressed gratitude to Caf's president, Dr Patrice Motsepe, and his teams, and hoped that the progress made during his tenure would 'last and be sustained'. Mosengo-Omba is expected to run for the post of president of the Democratic Republic of Congo's football federation.The controversy surrounding Caf's leadership has led to Senegal's government calling for an international investigation into the organisation. Caf's competitions director, Samson Adamu, will take over as acting general secretary.Earlier this month, Motsepe admitted that Caf was struggling with questions over its integrity. The organisation is set to expand the Africa Cup of Nations to 28 teams from 24, with plans to introduce a Nations League annually from 2029.

The US Men's National Team (USMNT) faced a daunting challenge as they welcomed Belgium to Mercedes-Benz Stadium for an international friendly, but the match ended in a 5-2 drubbing for the home side.Coach Mauricio Pochettino's squad, still finding its footing under his leadership, struggled to contain Belgium's offense, conceding five consecutive goals after taking an early lead. The loss exposed significant gaps in team chemistry and cohesion, particularly in defensive sequences.Pochettino acknowledged that his team's performance was disjointed and uneven, with players visibly unsure of their responsibilities on the field. He noted that when his team matched Belgium's intensity, they were 'even, in some moment, we were better,' but couldn't sustain that level throughout the 90 minutes.The match saw several US players, including Tim Weah and Christian Pulisic, struggle to adapt to their roles, while Belgium's Jérémy Doku proved particularly troublesome for the US defense. The scoreline flattered Belgium, but Pochettino emphasized that it was a valuable learning experience for his team.With only one friendly remaining against Portugal before naming his squad for the 2026 World Cup cycle, Pochettino faces a challenging task in fine-tuning his team's performance and chemistry. The March window has turned into a 'hell week' for the USMNT, with Tuesday's match against Portugal being the last chance to iron out kinks before the grand stage.

The recent dynamics between the United States and Israel have sparked concerns about their unintended impact on Iran's influence in the Middle East. Critics argue that the aggressive stance taken by these countries may inadvertently play into Iran's hands, potentially bolstering its position. Iran, under the leadership of Ayatollah Khamenei, has been navigating complex geopolitical relationships. The country's strategic interests and diplomatic maneuvers are often scrutinized for their implications on regional stability. The policies pursued by the US and Israel have been criticized for their potential to galvanize support for Iran among its allies and within the Muslim world. This could lead to a strengthening of Iran's influence, both diplomatically and economically. Experts suggest that a nuanced approach to Iran's geopolitical role is necessary, one that considers the long-term consequences of current policies. The international community remains watchful, as shifts in Iran's influence could have far-reaching implications for global politics and security.

Nepal's new Prime Minister has taken an unconventional approach to address the nation. Ahead of the swearing-in ceremony, the PM chose to deliver a message through a rap. This unusual method has garnered significant attention and curiosity.The rap message, although not detailed in the provided content, signifies a departure from traditional political communication. It reflects the PM's intent to connect with the populace in a modern and relatable way.The swearing-in ceremony, a significant event in Nepal's political landscape, marks the beginning of the PM's tenure. The rap message has set the tone for an interesting and potentially innovative leadership style.

Qatar's Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, held crucial talks with senior US officials in Washington, DC, as tensions escalate in the Gulf region due to the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran.The meetings, which included US Vice President JD Vance and US Secretary Scott Bessent, focused on strengthening the "close strategic cooperation" between Doha and Washington, particularly in defense partnerships given the current regional challenges.Both sides emphasized the importance of ensuring the sustainability of energy supplies and maintaining the flow of liquefied natural gas from Qatar to global markets, supporting global energy security.Vance praised Qatar's active role in promoting regional stability and enhancing global energy security, highlighting the robust strategic partnership between the two nations.The Gulf region has been under heightened tension since February 28, when the US-Israeli war on Iran began, resulting in over 3,000 deaths across the region, mostly in Iran and Lebanon.Iran has since launched drone and missile attacks on Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf states, prompting regional leaders to urge Iran to cease these attacks to protect civilians.Earlier this month, Qatar reported that Iranian missile attacks on the Ras Laffan Industrial City, the country's main gas facility, caused "significant damage."The conflict has led to an unprecedented global energy crisis as Iran has effectively closed off the Strait of Hormuz, through which one-fifth of the world's oil passes.On Thursday, Sheikh Mohammed also met with US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth in Washington, focusing on developing defense and security collaboration amid regional challenges.The Qatari Cabinet has condemned Iranian attacks on Qatar and its neighbors, calling for an immediate halt to these actions.

The Houthis have put their forces on high alert, warning of potential military intervention. This development escalates tensions in the region, drawing international attention to the volatile situation.The group's leadership has emphasized their readiness to respond to any threats, signaling a significant increase in military preparedness.This move comes amid rising concerns about stability in the region, with multiple parties closely monitoring the situation for any signs of escalation.