Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is prepared to flee to Moscow if his regime faces collapse, according to an intelligence report cited by The Times of Israel.
The report claims the 86-year-old leader would leave Tehran with senior aides and family members if security forces fail to suppress the escalating protests, or if elements within the regime abandon him during the unrest.
According to reports, a “plan B” has been prepared for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and his inner circle, including his son and designated successor, Mojtaba.
The revelation comes as mounting unrest, driven by worsening economic conditions, continues to place significant pressure on Iran’s ruling Islamic system.
Amid the tensions, U.S. President Donald Trump warned that if Iranian authorities opened fire on their own citizens, the United States would intervene to protect protesters. Iran’s Foreign Minister rejected the remarks, condemning them as “reckless and dangerous.”
The escalating situation unfolds as Tehran is still dealing with the aftermath of Israel’s 12-day offensive in June, along with subsequent U.S. airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear facilities.
Economic strain has intensified further since September, when the United Nations reinstated sanctions over Iran’s nuclear programme. As a result, the national currency has collapsed, with the rial now reportedly worth around 1.4 million to the U.S. dollar (NZ$1.74).
At the same time, Iran’s regional influence has weakened significantly, with its so-called “Axis of Resistance” — an alliance of states and militant groups aligned with Tehran — severely diminished since the Israel-Hamas conflict erupted in 2023.
Adding to the tension, U.S. President Donald Trump’s warning that Washington would “come to the rescue” if Iranian authorities violently suppressed peaceful demonstrators has gained renewed relevance, particularly after American forces detained Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, a key ally of Tehran.
A 33-year-old New Zealand citizen is facing serious drug smuggling charges after Customs officers at Auckland Airport allegedly discovered more than 18 kilograms of methamphetamine concealed in her luggage.
The methamphetamine seized is estimated to produce up to 922,500 doses, with a potential street value of NZ$5.53 million.
The woman arrived in Auckland from Singapore on 4 January and was referred to Customs for further questioning.
During a search of her baggage, officers located 18 individually vacuum-sealed packages containing a white crystalline substance. Subsequent testing confirmed the substance to be methamphetamine.
Customs Auckland Airport Manager Paul Williams issued a clear warning to travellers tempted to smuggle drugs into the country.
“If you try to smuggle drugs into New Zealand, you might not just land here—you could land in prison,” he said.
“The Christmas and New Year period is one of our busiest times, with our officers working tirelessly at the border to ensure a smooth travel experience for visitors and those returning home.
“Our message to anyone considering carrying prohibited items is clear: regardless of whether you know what’s in your bag, if it contains illegal drugs, you will face arrest.
“Customs remains committed to reducing the harm caused by illicit drugs in our communities. No financial gain is worth the serious consequences, which can include life imprisonment.”
Authorities estimate the 18.45 kilograms of methamphetamine seized could produce up to 922,500 doses, with a potential street value of approximately NZ$5.53 million.
Customs said investigations are ongoing.
Anyone with information about suspected drug smuggling is urged to contact Customs confidentially on 0800 WE PROTECT (0800 937 768) or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
The woman accused of misappropriating nearly half a million pa‘anga from Tonga’s Retirement Fund Board (RFB) is expected to reappear in court soon, following a postponement of her case from last year.
Meliame Lu’isa Finau Langi, 39, of Longolongo, is alleged to have taken $491,922.52 between 2022 and 2024.
Authorities confirmed that investigations revealed Langi was allegedly responsible for accumulating the funds in question during the specified period.
The case follows revelations last year that the fund’s board dismissed a couple in June 2024.
They were accused of involvement in the embezzlement of the pension funds.
However, there has been no confirmation that the two cases are linked.
That allegation became public after former Prime Minister Dr ‘Aisake Eke confirmed that an investigation was underway into claims of misappropriating “hundreds of thousands” of pa‘anga from the retirement fund.
Eke did not disclose any further information at the time.
Tonga’s RFB is financed through compulsory contributions from public servants, who pay 5 percent of their salaries, while the government contributes 7.5 percent as employer.
The fund also accepts voluntary contributions and holds major investments, including shares in the Tonga Development Bank. It is managed by the Tonga Retirement Fund Board, with the mandate to safeguard members’ savings while investing to grow the fund.
A man has been sentenced to prison after the Supreme Court found he fraudulently obtained money by falsely selling a town allotment in Kolomotuʻa, Tonga, according to court documents.
Penisimani Fisi’ihoi
The case centred on the unlawful sale of land known as Mohutapuaki, which was subject to a registered mortgage and had already been surrendered to another party at the time of the transaction.
Penisimani Fisi’ihoi, 43, promoted the sale of the allotment in April 2024, offering it to the complainant for $20,000, citing urgent financial need, according to the judgment.
The complainant paid the full amount over two days and, in return, was given a letter purportedly surrendering the land to her eldest son, along with a stamped document and a copy of the deed of grant.
Subsequent enquiries with the Ministry of Lands revealed that no such surrender had been received.
Police investigations later found that the surrender letter was never filed, the Ministry stamp used was not genuine, the reference number related to an unrelated land matter, and the deed of grant provided did not disclose an existing mortgage.
Investigators also established that the land had already been surrendered earlier in April 2024 to a different individual.
Defendant Admits Fraud
During police interviews, the defendant admitted to the offending, acknowledging that he had fabricated the surrender document and used a false Ministry stamp without authorisation.
He told investigators he was experiencing financial difficulty and believed the land was unencumbered at the time.
In submissions to the court, the defendant did not file formal written arguments as directed in October 2025 but apologised in court and sought leniency.
He told the court he wished to repay the complainant and claimed to have reimbursed approximately $6,000.
The Crown said it was unable to verify that claim, and the complainant was reported to be overseas at the time of the hearing.
Fisi’ihoi pleaded guilty to one count of obtaining money by false pretence, contrary to section 164 of the Criminal Offences Act.
Court documents show that Justice Tupou KC reduced the starting point by six months in mitigation, resulting in a final sentence of 24 months’ imprisonment.
Police have released images of two men they are seeking to identify in relation to a large brawl involving about 50 people in central Auckland last weekend.
The incidents, which involved a series of assaults, occurred in the early hours of Sunday, December 28, around the Karangahape Road area.
Detective Senior Sergeant Mark Greaves said the newly released photographs show two young men police would like to speak with as part of their ongoing inquiries.
“I am asking anyone who recognises these individuals to please contact police,” Greaves said.
He said one man was wearing black pants, a blue-and-black Hunting and Fishing jacket, and a black cap with white writing. The second man was wearing a white shirt and a beige hat.
A 21-year-old man was already arrested in relation to the assaults.
He was charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and was due to appear in court on January 16.
The public are asked to call police if they have any information and to quote reference number 251228/4774, or to report anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
Police say any information that could assist in identifying the two men would be appreciated.
Tonga’s new Prime Minister, Lord Fakafanua, has announced his 11-member Cabinet.
Most Cabinet ministers have been selected from among elected members of Parliament.
One portfolio has been filled from outside Parliament, with the Crown Prince appointed as Minister for Foreign Affairs and His Majesty’s Armed Forces, roles he also held in the previous government.
Aside from the Prime Minister, no Cabinet ministers have been appointed from among the noble members of Parliament, continuing a pattern set by the previous government.
The Prime Minister will oversee two major portfolios: police, prisons, and fire and emergency services; and the Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change, and Communications (MEIDECC).
The only woman newly elected to Parliament, Fane Fotu Fituafe, has been appointed Minister of Internal Affairs, a portfolio that includes women’s affairs, social development, and employment.
Lord Fakanua has assembled several members of Parliament, previously involved in intense debate and confrontation in Parliament. They are Dr Taniela Fusimalohi, former Prime Minister Huʻakavameiliku (Siaosi Sovaleni), and former Infrastructure Minister Seventiini Toumoʻua.
Dr Fusimalohi previously served as a deputy prime minister in the government led by Dr ʻAisake Eke, which initiated a vote of no confidence in December 2024. The motion ultimately prompted Prime Minister Huʻakavameiliku’s resignation before it could be debated.
The same episode also led to Toumoʻua losing his ministerial post in that Cabinet.
The incident escalated into prolonged clashes in Parliament last year involving the trio, following a series of serious allegations made by Dr Fusimalohi—who was then Minister for Infrastructure—against Huʻakavameiliku and Toumoʻua. Among these was a dispute that culminated in Fusimalohi accusing Toumoʻua ofdefamation on social media, as alleged at the time.
PM Lord Fakafanua presented his ministerial recommendations to King Tupou VI during an audience on December 26, the Prime Minister’s Office recently said.
The King formally appointed the new ministers on Wednesday, 31, 2025, in accordance with the Constitution, which requires appointments to be made on the Prime Minister’s advice.
The appointments released by the Prime Minister’s Office today are as follows:
Lord Fakafanua
Prime Minister
Minister for Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Communications and Climate Change (MEIDECC); Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services, and Prisons
Dr Viliami Uasike Latu
Deputy Prime Minister
Minister for Justice; Minister for Trade and Economic Development
HRH Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala
Minister for His Majesty’s Diplomatic Services; Minister for His Majesty’s Armed Forces
Siaosi ‘Ofakivahafolau Sovaleni
Minister for Public Enterprises; Minister for Health
Lataifaingata’a Tangimana
Minister for Finance & National Planning
Semisi Kioa Lafu Sika
Minister for Tourism; Minister for Infrastructure
Dr Taniela Liku’ohihifo Fusimalohi
Minister for Lands, Survey, Planning and Natural Resources
Dr Mo’ale ‘Otunuku
Minister for Education and Training
Sevenitini Toumo’ua
Minister for Customs and Inland Revenue
Viliami Sisifa
Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forests; Minister for Fisheries
Fane Fotu Fituafe
Minister for Internal Affairs, Employment, Women, Social Protection, Youth and Sports.
The BBC has welcomed the start of 2026 with a New Year message highlighting celebrations in Tonga and New Zealand, placing the two Pacific nations among the first in the world to usher in the new year.
In its New Year coverage, the BBC carried the greeting, “‘May 2026 be filled with peace, hope, and blessing’:Tongans and New Zealanders welcome new year,” as Tonga entered the new year ahead of most countries due to its position near the International Date Line.
Across the Kingdom, the New Year was marked primarily through church services and family gatherings, reflecting Tonga’s deeply rooted Christian traditions.
Many congregations held late-night services to give thanks for the year that had passed and to seek God’s guidance and protection for the year ahead.
Fireworks also featured in Tonga’s celebrations to welcome the new year.
Families gathered in homes and villages throughout Tongatapu, Vavaʻu, Haʻapai, and ʻEua, welcoming 2026 in quiet observance rather than large public celebrations.
Messages shared among communities focused on peace, good health, and unity, particularly following recent years of social and economic challenges.
While celebrations in New Zealand were more visibly public, the broadcaster noted the contrast with Tonga’s faith-centred observances.
As one of the first nations to enter the new year, Tonga’s New Year moment was broadcast to international audiences, offering a glimpse of the Kingdom’s cultural and spiritual values at the very start of 2026.
Auckland,NZ – Thousands of New Year’s Eve revellers across the upper North Island are facing a sodden and potentially dangerous countdown as MetService places Auckland under a severe thunderstorm watch.
The severe weather is forecast to bring disruptive, very heavy rain and flash flooding risks through the evening, while offering a silver lining for drenched holidaymakers in Hawke’s Bay.
The meteorological service has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Auckland City, Rodney, Gulf Islands, and Albany, effective until 7:30 pm Monday.
The volatile cells are tracking southeast and were predicted to be near central Auckland and Auckland Airport at 7:00 pm. By 7:30 pm, they are expected to impact Pukekohe, Papakura, Drury, Patumahoe, and Kingseat.
“These thunderstorms are expected to be accompanied by very heavy rain,” a MetService spokesperson warned. The public is advised that such intensity can lead to surface and flash flooding around streams, gullies, and poorly draining urban areas. Driving conditions are expected to become “extremely hazardous,” with reduced visibility and potential water pooling on roads.
The timing threatens to disrupt a raft of outdoor festivities and travel plans for one of the busiest nights of the year. Emergency services are urging people to reconsider non-essential travel in affected areas, check road closures, and have a plan to seek shelter quickly if severe weather strikes during celebrations.
In a contrast of fortunes, residents and holidaymakers in Hawke’s Bay, who have endured a week of persistent rain, can finally anticipate a drier evening. The forecast break in the weather offers a welcome window for outdoor gatherings and a clearer view of any potential midnight fireworks displays.
The Auckland Emergency Management has reiterated standard advice for severe thunderstorms: secure loose outdoor items, avoid unnecessary travel, never drive through floodwaters, and stay indoors away from windows during the most intense activity.
People are encouraged to monitor official MetService updates and local civil defence channels for the latest information.
As the region prepares to ring in the New Year, the mood for many will be dictated by the skies, with safety authorities hoping the public prioritises caution over celebration during the passing storms.
An inquest has ruled that the death of a woman at Tufuenga was a case of murder.
A composite image showing three photographs of Lile Pomale taken at different stages of her life, from early childhood to shortly before her death.
The death of 44-year-old Lile Pomale is now the subject of a police investigation, following the release of an inquest report to the media this morning.
The report found that Pomale is believed to have died sometime between 1.30am on November 26 and November 30.
The timeframe reflects the available medical and evidentiary findings presented during the inquest.
Pomale’s death drew public attention after a relative alleged on social media that she had been murdered.
She was well known online and often recognised in Nukuʻalofa, where she was known to greet people and take selfies with them.
The inquest was led by Senior Magistrate Tevita Fukofuka and included medical findings from pathologist Dr Siale ‘Akauʻola.
According to the report, the inquest file — including sworn testimonies, official documents, medical findings, photographic evidence, and a site visit to the location where the body was found — has been submitted to the Attorney General and the Registrar of the Supreme Court for further action.
Pomale was reported to be a mother with children.
She was buried at Kalevalio Cemetery in Maʻufanga, according to reports.
What was presented to the public as a consultative and unifying process for forming Tonga’s new government is now being described by key participants as a one-way notification rather than a genuine dialogue.
Dr ‘Aisake Eke (left) and Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua
Last week, Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua announced that he had submitted his list of Cabinet ministers to the King for appointment, stating in a press release that the decision followed “careful consideration and consultation, which included members of parliament and the former Prime Minister.”
The statement was also reflected in media reporting, including a Kaniva Newsarticle titled “PM Fakafanua seeks rival Dr Eke’s counsel before submitting Cabinet picks to King,” which was based on the Prime Minister’s Office press release.
The statement was issued in English, followed by a Tongan version a few hours later. In the Tongan-language version, the term “consultation” appears to have been translated as “fakataha”, a commonly used Tongan word meaning a meeting or gathering.
It said: “Na’e fakahoko eni hili ‘a hono vakavakai’i lelei mo e ngaahi fakataha ‘o kau ai ‘a e kau mēmipa ‘o e Fale Aleá pea pehē ki he Palēmia malolo.”
Meaning Under Scrutiny
The translation of “consultation” as fakataha has been questioned by critics, who say the term does not clearly convey the idea of seeking advice, a distinction now central to the dispute over whether genuine consultation occurred.
According to the Oxford Dictionary, “consultation” is defined as the action or process of formally consulting or discussing, and also as a meeting with an expert or professional in order to seek advice.
The definition has added to scrutiny over how the term was used in the Prime Minister’s Office statement.
Eke Rejects Characterisation
In a written response sent to Kaniva News, former Prime Minister Dr ‘Aisake Eke said the characterisation of his involvement as “consultation” was inaccurate and “misleading.”
Eke said he met with Prime Minister Fakafanua, but the nobleman only informed him that the Cabinet had already been selected and that no ministerial positions would be allocated to MPs aligned with his team.
Eke said: “When we met he informed me that he had selected his Cabinet ministers consisting of 12 members, with 1 minister to be drawn from outside ( of the 26 MPs), and the rest of the 11 ministers from his supporters ( those MPs who voted for him as PM).”
“He did not seek my counsel nor consult me on the members of his new Cabinet.”
“Given the truth of what happened in my meeting with the PM, it is clear that the PMO press release that I was consulted, and your article, based on PMO Press Release, of seeking my counsel are both “misleading” the public at best,” Eke said.
He said it was “very unfortunate and sad” that the Prime Minister’s Office press release gave the impression that he had provided input into the selection of the new Cabinet when, he said, this was not the case.
Constitutional Right, Ethical Question
Eke acknowledged that the Prime Minister “has the constitutional right to [select] his Cabinet ministers and recommend them to His Majesty,” but said he saw no need for the process to be described in a way that, in his view, suggested broader consultation than had occurred.
He added that, despite his concerns, he wished the Prime Minister and his Cabinet well.
“We all wish to have a good government taking us forward, and our best wishes to the PM and his Cabinet as well,” Eke said.
MP Accounts Differ
While the Prime Minister’s Office said the consultation “included members of parliament”, several MPs told Kaniva News they did not attend any meeting with the Prime Minister regarding the formation of his Cabinet.
Those MPs, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the statement would have been clearer had it specified that the Prime Minister met with only some members, rather than implying broader consultation across Parliament.
Unite or Divide
Since his election this month, Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua has told the media that he is prioritising the unification of Parliament’s 26 members.
He suggested selecting a merit-based Cabinet, irrespective of how MPs voted for him.
“If we are to unite Tonga we will have to start in parliament,” an RNZ report quoted him as saying.
However, he also told ABC News he considered leaving rivals out to form a strong opposition to hold the government to account.
