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An Iranian newspaper has published a controversial list naming former U.S. President Donald Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and several European leaders as alleged targets for revenge following the killing of Iran’s former Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei.

The publication is linked to hardline elements in Iran but it is not clear whether the list reflects official Iranian government policy.

The report comes amid heightened tensions after Khamenei’s death and follows renewed vows of retaliation by Iran’s current Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, who has publicly promised revenge for his father’s assassination.

The newspaper’s publication has raised international concern, with analysts warning that such inflammatory rhetoric could further escalate the already volatile security situation in the Middle East. While the list has attracted widespread attention, there has been no official confirmation that it represents an operational threat or an approved policy of the Iranian government.

The development comes as tensions between Iran, the United States, Israel, and their allies remain at one of their highest levels in recent years, with governments closely monitoring the situation for any signs of further escalation.

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Military sources have confirmed the death of an Army officer, Lieutenant F.A. Isaac, during the operation that rescued 44 abducted pupils and teachers from the Old Oyo National Park.

The victims were rescued on July 10, 2026, in a coordinated operation involving security agencies after spending several days in captivity.

According to the sources, Lieutenant Isaac was killed in the line of duty during the rescue mission and was buried the same day.

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde had earlier confirmed that the military recorded a casualty during the operation.

Sources said Lieutenant Isaac was among the officers leading efforts to rescue the abducted pupils and teachers when he was fatally wounded.

The pupils and teachers were abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on or about June 6, 2026, before their eventual rescue by security operatives.

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…says security is not politics

The National Director General of APC Volunteer, Sir Victor Walsh Oluwafemi, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for reaffirming Vice President Kashim Shettima, as his running mate for the 2027 Presidential Election, describing the decision as a demonstration of confidence, continuity, and strategic leadership.

This was contained in a statement he personally signed at the weekend.

According to Sir Victor Walsh Oluwafemi, the President’s decision reinforces public confidence in an administration that has remained focused on economic reforms, institutional strengthening, and restoring national security despite inheriting complex security and economic challenges.

He noted that successful governments are built on trust, consistency, and shared vision, adding that the Tinubu and Shettima partnership has continued to demonstrate resilience in steering the country through a period of significant national transformation.

Oluwafemi also congratulated President Tinubu, Vice President Shettima, the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force, and other security and intelligence agencies on the successful rescue of the kidnapped children, describing the operation as a victory for Nigeria and a source of hope for families across the country.

“The rescue of innocent children is not merely a security success. It is a restoration of hope, a reaffirmation that the Nigerian state remains committed to protecting the lives of its citizens.

“It’s also a reminder that our security personnel continue to make enormous sacrifices in defence of our nation.”

While acknowledging that insecurity remains one of Nigeria’s most pressing national concerns, Oluwafemi observed that recent months have witnessed increased coordination among security agencies, more intelligence driven operations, successful rescue missions, and sustained efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating across different parts of the country.

He stressed that these achievements should encourage further investment in intelligence gathering, surveillance technology, border security, community engagement, and improved welfare for members of the Armed Forces and other security services.

Oluwafemi, however, expressed concern over attempts by some political actors to exploit security incidents for partisan advantage.

“National security should never become a political campaign tool. Terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and violent crime affect every Nigerian regardless of political affiliation, ethnicity, or religion.

“Every successful rescue operation should unite us as a people rather than divide us along political lines.”

He urged political leaders, opinion moulders, and public commentators to exercise restraint and patriotism in their public engagements, noting that irresponsible political narratives can undermine public confidence, embolden criminal elements, and weaken national unity.

He further observed that Nigeria’s security progress is closely monitored by investors, development partners, diplomatic missions, and the international community.

“Every successful security operation strengthens Nigeria’s global reputation, improves investor confidence, and reinforces the country’s commitment to peace, stability and democratic governance.

“As a nation, we must support our security institutions while demanding continuous improvement. Constructive criticism strengthens democracy, but reckless politicisation of security weakens national resolve. Nigeria’s security is a shared responsibility that must remain above partisan politics.”

The APC Volunteer therefore reaffirmed its unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima as they continue implementing the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The organisation also called on Nigerians to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies by providing credible intelligence, and continue working together to build a safer, stronger, and more prosperous nation.