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Prime Minister the Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar, SC, MP, has announced the start of another State of Emergency (SoE) in Trinidad and Tobago, effective from today (Tuesday 3rd March, 2026). In a statement issued shortly before 4:00 AM this morning, the Prime Minister said, “The National Security Council (NSC) met at the Diplomatic Centre on Monday, March 2nd, 2026, and received security briefings from the Commissioner of Police, Allister Guevarro, the Chief of Defence Staff, Don Polo, and the Head of the Strategic Services Agency (SSA), Alicia Henry. The NSC noted that, following the end of the previous State of Emergency on January 31st, 2026, there has been an increase in violent criminal activity across the country, most of which has been carried out by members of organized criminal gangs. ” According to Mrs. Persad-Bissessar, “The NSC further noted that several of these acts of criminality have resulted in multiple deaths due to mass shootings and that the continuance of repr...

The Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs said it “wishes to express its support for the continued actions of the United States of America aimed at preventing oppressive regimes from acquiring nuclear weapons capabilities that would jeopardize international peace and security. The proliferation of such weapons is a grave threat to the global community.” In an Advisory issued on Saturday (28th February, 2026), the Ministry said it “expresses sympathy for all loss of life due to events occurring in the Middle East and reaffirms our support for the peaceful existence for all persons. The Ministry stands in firm solidarity with our brothers and sisters in the Gulf, including those in the United Arab Emirates, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of Bahrain and State of Qatar who have come under attack and condemn in the strongest possible terms any acts of aggression that threaten their sovereignty, security, and stability.” The Ministry added, “The safety and security of Trinidad and Tobag...

According to United States Central Command (CENTCOM), as of 9:30 AM ET this morning (Sunday 1st March, 2026), three (3) U.S. service members have been killed in action and five (5) are seriously wounded as part of Operation Epic Fury . CENTCOM notes that, “Several others sustained minor shrapnel injuries and concussions — and are in the process of being returned to duty. Major combat operations continue and our response effort is ongoing. The situation is fluid, so out of respect for the families, we will withhold additional information, including the identities of our fallen warriors, until 24 hours after next of kin have been notified.” U.S. President Donald Trump provided an update on Operation Epic Fury a short while ago this evening: President Donald J. Trump provides an update on Operation Epic Fury: pic.twitter.com/Vte8QKpISn — The White House (@WhiteHouse) March 1, 2026 CENTCOM stated this morning that an Iranian Jamaran-class corvette war ship was struck by U.S. forces durin...

The Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago said it is closely observing the evolving developments in the Middle East . In a Media Release today (Saturday 28th February, 2026), the Ministry said nationals are strongly encouraged to undertake the following precautionary actions: Remain indoors in a secure location, avoid all travel and follow instructions from the local authorities. Stay vigilant and informed by monitoring credible news sources and official advisories. Register promptly with the Ministry's Registration System for Nationals Abroad:
 https://register.foreign.gov.tt . Ensure that all travel documents are valid and up to date. Comply fully with safety and security directives issued by local authorities. Ascertain the location of the nearest emergency shelter in the event of intensifying hostilities. Formulate contingency plans for departure, particularly where personal safety may be at risk. Nationals are also reminded...

UPDATE 3:  Iran has confirmed the death of the Ayatollah after hours of denial, even after Donald Trump announced he was dead. UPDATE 2:  Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump were reportedly shown an image of Khamenei's body after it was recovered from his compound. UPDATE: Khamenei's four (4) family members were also killed in the strikes, along with two (2) high-level military leaders — Rear Adm. Ali Shamkhani and Commander of the IRGC, Maj. Gen. Mohammad Pakpour. “Khamenei, one of the most evil people in History, is dead.” This according to a statement released a few moments ago this afternoon (Saturday 28th February, 2026) by United States President Donald Trump, announcing the death of 86-year-old Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader since 1989. He was reportedly killed after Israeli jets dropped thirty (30) bombs on his compound. The United States and Israel struck Iran in a major operation earlier today that President T...

United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said it commenced Operation Epic Fury today (Saturday 28th February, 2026) at the direction of the President of the United States, Donald Trump. CENTCOM's Task Force Scorpion Strike — for the first time in history — is using one-way attack drones in combat during Operation Epic Fury. “These low-cost drones, modeled after Iran's Shahed drones, are now delivering American-made retribution.” In a statement issued a short while ago this afternoon, CENTCOM said, “ U.S. and partner forces began striking targets at 1:15 AM ET to dismantle the Iranian regime’s security apparatus, prioritizing locations that posed an imminent threat. Targets included Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps command and control facilities, Iranian air defense capabilities, missile and drone launch sites, and military airfields. ” According to Adm. Brad Cooper, Commander of CENTCOM, “The President ordered bold action, and our brave Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Gu...

The Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation is advising members of the public that, effective from Monday (2nd March, 2026), mandatory Fixed Penalty Warnings will be implemented for eighteen (18) specified traffic violations contained in the Eleventh Schedule to the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act , Chap. 48:50, aimed at improving road safety, encouraging compliance, and promoting corrective action. In a Media Release on Friday (27th February, 2026), the Ministry said, “ Motorists in breach of the listed violations will be issued a Fixed Penalty Warning instead of a Fixed Penalty Notice. The warning provides motorists with an opportunity to correct the identified defect within a prescribed three (3) or seven (7) business day period , excluding weekends, public holidays, Carnival Monday and Carnival Tuesday.” The Ministry notes that upon issuance of a warning, the motorist is required to remedy the defect and present the vehicle at any Police Station or any office of the Licensing...

UPDATE 3:  United States President Donald Trump has announced the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei , Iran’s supreme leader since 1989. He was reportedly killed in an Israeli airstrike on his Tehran compound. UPDATE 2:  Scenes of chaos unfolded in Qatar after debris from an intercepted missile fell from the sky, sending bystanders scrambling for cover. Cellphone footage circulating online shows several people running in panic as fragments descended overhead before striking the ground and exploding. UPDATE: White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said President Trump monitored the situation overnight at Mar-a-Lago in Florida alongside members of his national security team. “The President spoke with Prime Minister Netanyahu by phone. Prior to the attacks, Secretary Rubio called all members of the gang of eight to provide congressional notification, and he was able to reach and brief seven of the eight members. The President and his national security team will continue to c...

“The area formerly occupied by the old Chaguanas Health Facility has been identified for the development of a proper, structured transport hub. This is not a random decision. It is part of a broader plan to improve traffic flow, public safety, commuter comfort, and economic activity within our Borough.” This from Mayor of Chaguanas His Worship Councillor Faaiq Mohammed. In a Media Release today (Friday 27th February, 2026), the Mayor said, “Chaguanas is growing. And with growth comes responsibility. We cannot continue to operate in a way that creates congestion, disorder, and long term risk. We must plan properly, build properly, and manage our space properly. Let me also make the timeline clear. Vendors operating in that area have been formally notified and have until March 31st to remove their structures and relocate. Demolition will commence immediately after that date. This process is defined, it is orderly, and it will proceed.” According to Mohammed, “At the same time, let me be...

Prime Minister the Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar, SC, MP, met on Wednesday (25th February, 2026) with United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio for a one-on-one bilateral discussion during the CARICOM 50th Regular Meeting in Saint Kitts and Nevis. The Honourable Prime Minister was among a select group of regional leaders afforded the opportunity to engage in these high‑level talks. Mrs. Persad-Bissessar is set to meet U.S. President Donald Trump on 7th March, 2026, after receiving an invitation to attend what is being called the “Shields of the Americas” summit in Florida. The disclosure came following her closed-door talks with Secretary Rubio on Wednesday — a development that is already drawing regional attention. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar is set to meet United States President Donald Trump next month, after receiving an invitation to attend what is being called the “Shields of the Americas” summit in Florida. The disclosure came following her closed-door talks wi...

Cuban officials announced this afternoon (Wednesday 25th February, 2026) that four (4) people aboard a Florida-registered speedboat were killed by Cuban border guard troops and six (6) wounded, when the vessel allegedly violated its territorial waters. A Commander of the Cuban border guard was also shot during the confrontation. Cuban officials allege that the Florida-registered vessel had initiated the firefight. U.S. President Donald Trump has not yet responded to the incident. The Cuban Embassy in the U.S. issued a note from Cuba’s Ministry of the Interior via X this afternoon, stating, “On the morning of February 25, 2026, a violating speedboat was detected within Cuban territorial waters. The vessel, registered in Florida, United States, with registration number FL7726SH, approached up to 1 nautical mile Northeast of the El Pino channel, in Cayo Falcones, Corralillo municipality, Villa Clara province. When a surface unit of the Border Guard Troops of the Ministry of the Interior, ...

The Ministry of Homeland Security is advising that today (Wednesday 25th February, 2026) is the final day for online registration with the Migrant Registration Framework (MRF) .   The registration portal will close promptly at Midnight . In a Media Release today, the Ministry said, “Applicants are reminded that incomplete applications will NOT be accepted.  Individuals are therefore encouraged to ensure that all required information and supporting documents are properly submitted before the deadline.” In-Person Interview Schedule In-person interviews will be conducted at the following locations: Monday 2nd March, 2026 to Friday 27th March, 2026 Hasely Crawford Stadium (Port-of-Spain) Larry Gomes Stadium (Arima) Ato Boldon Stadium (Couva) Tuesday 3rd March, 2026 to Wednesday 11th March, 2026 Dwight Yorke Stadium (Tobago) Applicants are strongly advised to check their email regularly for their assigned appointment date and time. All appointment notifications will be issued...

Prime Minister the Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar, SC, MP, and her delegation have arrived in Saint Kitts and Nevis for the 50th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), which takes place from today (Tuesday 24th February, 2026) to Friday (27th February, 2026).  Minister of Works and Infrastructure, Jearlean John, has been designated to act as Prime Minister until Mrs. Persad-Bissessar’s return to Trinidad and Tobago. The 50th Regular Meeting, under the theme, “Beyond Words: Action Today for a Thriving, Sustainable CARICOM,” will be chaired by the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis, who assumed the Chairmanship of the Community on 1st January, 2026. Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar is scheduled to deliver an address at the Opening Ceremony today (Tuesday 24th February, 2026) at the Marriott Dome in Frigate Bay. She is joined by Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs, Sean Sobers, Minister i...

At the direction of United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) Commander Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel earlier today (Monday 23rd February, 2026), operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations (DTOs), killing three (3) aboard. The latest action, announced by SOUTHCOM this afternoon, was conducted in the Caribbean. On Feb. 23, at the direction of #SOUTHCOM commander Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations. Intelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known… pic.twitter.com/XUHImPAZik — U.S. Southern Command (@Southcom) February 23, 2026 According to SOUTHCOM, “Intelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known narco-trafficking routes in the Caribbean and was engaged in narco-trafficking operations. Three (3) male narco-terrorists were killed during this action. No U.S. military force...

The Land Settlement Agency (LSA), under the Ministry of Land and Legal Affairs, is inviting eligible persons to apply for the Land for the Landless Programme (LFLP). Applications must be submitted online via www.lsatt.com or scan the QR code below to apply using your mobile device. Application Period: 23rd February to 4th March, 2026 Important Notices: Applications are available online only. Applications will not be facilitated at any LSA's offices. All applications must be completed within the stated period. More on this as it becomes available. Please be guided accordingly.

Former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley is criticizing Chief Secretary of the Tobago House of Assembly (THA), Farley Augustine, over lack of governance in Tobago and the impact the out-of-service Blue Wave Harmony vessel is having on his personal operations. In a Facebook post this afternoon (Sunday 22nd February, 2026), Dr. Rowley said, “Farley wanted and got all 15 THA seats and the 2 Parliamentary seats so that there should be no voice to be raised in questioning all that this shows up!!! I wish us all well. For most people it is just talk and opinions and appearances but for me, one of the few PRODUCERS of anything in Tobago, it is a real crisis since I have pens full of thousands of live animals (chickens, pigs and sheep) for which I can’t get feed because no feed mill exist in Tobago and my weekly trucking is destroyed because the boat has no schedule in a significantly reduced frequency.” The former Prime Minister added, “I guess it serves me right because after Farley’s promise ...

At the direction of United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) Commander Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel on Friday (20th February, 2026), operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations (DTOs), killing three (3) aboard. The latest action, announced by SOUTHCOM on Friday night, was conducted in the Eastern Pacific. On Feb. 20, at the direction of #SOUTHCOM commander Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations. Intelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known… pic.twitter.com/PzWQFfNgHm — U.S. Southern Command (@Southcom) February 21, 2026 According to SOUTHCOM, “Intelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known narco-trafficking routes in the Eastern Pacific and was engaged in narco-trafficking operations. Three (3) male narco-terrorists were killed during this action. No U.S. military...

The Ministry of Finance (MOF), Inland Revenue Division (IRD), is informing all Liquor Licence Holders of significant changes to the filing process for Amusement Gaming Tax Returns. In a Media Release today (Friday 20th February, 2026), the Ministry said, effective 1st April, 2026, the IRD will be transitioning to a fully digital filing system for Amusement Gaming Tax. Please note the following changes: All Amusement Gaming Tax Returns will now be accessed and processed exclusively via the IRD's e-Tax Logged In Service. Discontinuation of Paper Returns: Paper-based returns will no longer be accepted for processing of the Amusement Gaming Tax Returns from the 2026 period. Licence Holders are reminded that all outstanding Amusement Gaming Tax Returns for periods prior to this transition must be submitted using the existing manual process. Electronic Documentation: Licence Holders will be required to upload all necessary information and documents electronically, including the sp...

UPDATE: Prime Minister the Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar, SC, MP, has issued the following statement after the announcement that Trinidad and Tobago has been removed from the EU tax list:  “Trinidad and Tobago is no longer blacklisted. Our country has officially been removed from the European Union’s list of non-cooperative jurisdictions for tax purposes — a designation applied to countries that fail to meet international standards for tax transparency.  This is a major step forward. The previous PNM administration failed to take the necessary actions to secure compliance and removal. Since assuming office, your UNC Government moved swiftly and decisively to fix it. Through legislative reform, sustained international engagement, and stronger institutions, we restored credibility and rebuilt trust. Blacklisting constrained investment, limited opportunity, and weakened confidence in our financial system. In less than a year, we strengthened our laws, enhanced transparency, ...

UPDATE: The families of a number of St. Lucian fishermen say they were killed in recent U.S. boat strikes in Caribbean waters. Prime Minister of St. Lucia, Philip J. Pierre, confirmed that “people had lost their lives” under circumstances, but clarified that he had received no official notification on these circumstances to date.  His statement followed reports that the burnt-out hulls of at least two (2) fishing vessels had surfaced off Canouan and Bequia in St. Lucia, following the deadly U.S. strikes on 13th February and 16th February, 2026. At the direction of United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) Commander Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted three (3) lethal kinetic strikes on three (3) vessels late last night (Monday 16th February, 2026), operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations (DTOs), killing a total of eleven (11) aboard. These actions, announced by SOUTHCOM this afternoon (Tuesday 17th February, 2026), were conducted in the East...