In a statement, the Israeli military said the strikes hit a compound used by Hezbollah’s Radwan Force for training activities. Additional military structures and a launch site belonging to Hezbollah were also targeted.
Video circulating on social networks showed large flames rising above buildings, while Lebanon’s Al-Mayadeen TV reported that violent air raids targeted the Iqlim al-Tuffah area and Mount Safi.
There were no immediate reports of casualties.
The attack was the latest of recent intensified Israeli strikes in Lebanon, despite a ceasefire that came into effect in November 2024.
The border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand has already resulted in significant civilian casualties, damage to civilian infrastructure, and displacement on both sides of the border, spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said in a statement.
The UN chief stresses that both parties must protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian relief, and urges both parties to exercise restraint and avoid further escalation, the spokesperson said.
Dujarric said the secretary-general reiterates his call on the parties to return to the framework of the Joint Declaration signed on Oct. 26, recommit to the ceasefire, and implement de-escalation and confidence-building measures.
Guterres calls on both parties to make full use of all mechanisms for dialogue to find a lasting solution to the dispute through peaceful means, the spokesperson said.
“The United Nations stands ready to support all efforts aimed at promoting peace, stability, and development in the region,” Dujarric said.
Border clashes broke out again between Thailand and Cambodia from Sunday to Monday, with artillery fire reported in several areas and residents rushing to evacuate in multiple provinces, less than two months after the two countries signed a joint peace declaration.
This figure was revealed by the Commissioner General of the Rwanda Correctional Service, CG Evariste Murenzi, who stated that since the beginning of 2025, the service has received over 23,000 people sentenced by the courts.
On average, this means that at least 2,090 people are imprisoned each month. Currently, the total number of incarcerated individuals is over 70,000, with 23,000 new inmates received this year alone.
The Rwanda Human Rights Commission recently noted a decrease in the number of detainees, contributing to a reduction in overcrowding in prisons by 24.3%, from 134.3% to 110%.
The Commission also revealed that the total number of prisoners is 74,253, including 68,944 men, 4,773 women, and 536 children.
CG Murenzi emphasized that RCS is focused on rehabilitating offenders rather than punishing them as was done in the past.
He added that work-release programs are being implemented to reduce overcrowding, which allow inmates to work outside of prison three days a week, benefiting both the individual and their community.
President of the Supreme Court, Mukantaganzwa Domitilla, stated that efforts to promote reconciliation and restorative justice would further reduce incarceration rates.
The cost of detaining prisoners accounts for a significant portion of the budget. For example, last year, the Rwanda Correctional Service (RCS) was allocated over Frw 40 billion, with 60% of this amount used for the care of inmates across various correctional facilities.
This means that more than Frw 24 billion was spent on this, while the remaining funds were used for other activities.
Rubavu is a popular hub for entertainment and tourism in Rwanda. On weekends, people of all ages flock to enjoy the beaches of Tam Tam, the hot springs known as Amashyuza in Nyamyumba, and other scenic spots that offer stunning views of the city of Goma and the surrounding hills of Lake Kivu.
The district’s administration unveiled these major projects during a retreat that brought together various stakeholders in the district’s development.
The Rubavu district authorities say that in the next five years, five new hotels will be built along the shores of Lake Kivu, along with other initiatives that will transform the region’s tourism landscape.
Speaking to IGIHE, the Mayor of Rubavu District Prosper Mulindwa, stated that they are continuing to support local and international investors who wish to invest in hotels and tourism.
“These five hotels will be built by establishing large tourism investment zones, in collaboration with the Rwanda Development Board [RDB] and local and international private investors. We will continue to encourage investment in hotel services, offering support in planning, permits, roads, and basic infrastructure,” he said.
Mulindwa added that these hotels will offer international standard services, provide training for tourism service providers, and be places for learning and work.
The hotels are also expected to increase the number of modern rooms for international conference attendees and tourists, help youth with entrepreneurship, and boost the economy through services.
For instance, just below Serena Hotel, near the Rubavu district offices, a tall hotel building is under construction, although the name has not yet been revealed.
According to information obtained by IGIHE, the hotel, being built by the family of former President Pasteur Bizimungu, will be a five-star establishment.
Reports suggest that this hotel will stand out in Rubavu as it will have over 80 rooms, making it the largest in the city. It will also feature a large conference room, a rare addition for hotels in Rubavu.
Additionally, the hotel will have an outdoor pool, offering a view of Lake Kivu from the top.
In Nyamyumba, another five-star hotel is under construction. This hotel will feature a unique system that uses hot springs in the rooms, replacing traditional water heating systems.
Currently, Rubavu has 24 hotels, offering a total of 2,059 rooms, with 1,471 of these located in Gisenyi sector. The largest hotel is Serena Hotel, with 69 rooms, followed by Stipp Hotel with 50 rooms.
These minerals are challenging to process because a single stone extracted from the earth can contain a mix of different types of minerals. Additionally, only a few countries are abundant in them.
China currently controls nearly 80% of the global market for processing rare earth minerals. Globally, there are approximately 130 million tons of these minerals. China holds over 44 million tons, Vietnam possesses 22 million tons, Brazil has 21 million tons, and Russia controls 12 million tons. The United States, in comparison, has about 1.2 million tons.
For the U.S., securing rare earth minerals is crucial for maintaining its position as a global superpower. These minerals are essential to its technological leadership, supporting everything from electric vehicles to 5G internet, and reducing reliance.
To illustrate the importance, Apple, one of America’s leading tech companies, has announced it will invest $500 million in mining and processing these minerals within the United States.
The U.S. also aims to capitalize on Ukraine’s vast mineral wealth, which is valued at an estimated $14 trillion. It’s reported that the U.S. plans to replace its dependence on Chinese rare earth minerals with those sourced from Ukraine, given that the country is rich in these resources.
The minerals in question include Bastnaesite, Monazite, Xenotime, Allanite, Eudialyte, Loparite, Gadolinite, Cerite, Samarskite, Fergusonite, Parisite, Fluorite, and others.
These minerals are processed into valuable metals like Lanthanum, Cerium, Praseodymium, Neodymium, Promethium, Samarium, Europium, Gadolinium, Terbium, Dysprosium, Holmium, Erbium, Thulium, Ytterbium, Lutetium, Scandium, and Yttrium. These are used in various industries, such as electronics, energy production, and medical technologies.
The cost of these minerals can vary significantly. For example, a ton of Cerium may cost between $2,000 and $4,000, while the price of Dysprosium can range from $300,000 to $500,000 per ton. The most expensive mineral is Terbium, which can cost up to $1.5 million per ton.
{{Rwanda’s rich potential in rare earth minerals}}
Rwanda is one of the countries actively developing research in rare earth minerals through advanced technologies. History shows that these minerals have been mined in the country, and their presence continues to be significant today.
Jean Claude Ngaruye, Mining Exploration Division Manager at the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board (RMB), has told IGIHE that Rwanda has abundant reserves of these minerals.
“These minerals were mined before and after independence. Three types were particularly extracted: Monazite, Zircon, and Xenotime. These minerals are in high demand due to their use in modern technology, with Zircon also being utilized in the nuclear industry.”
The regions with the most significant mining activity are located in Rwanda’s Southern Province. These include areas like Rukarara in Nyamagabe, Nshili in Nyaruguru, and near Munanira rock.
According to Ngaruye, “These sites were part of the former Butare, with one area located in the Gishamvu sector of Huye District.”
Minerals are also found in Musebeya, a region that stretches across Karongi, Nyamagabe, and Nyamasheke.
Monazite, for example, yields metals like Cerium, Lanthanum, Neodymium, Praseodymium, and Samarium, which are essential for producing batteries, audio systems, aircraft engines, and other high-tech devices.
These minerals are highly valuable. For instance, Neodymium is priced at about $70,500 per ton, while Praseodymium costs around $71,350 per ton.
Ngaruye pointed out that the reason these minerals are in such high demand is not due to their low cost but because of their crucial role in technological development and environmental protection.
“Mining is like any other business. When something is in high demand, prices rise. If supply exceeds demand, prices drop. […] The prices of rare earths have decreased, which has led to our reduced interest. You wouldn’t go looking for an unnecessary stone in the market. The reason America is pursuing them so aggressively is to build its own large stockpile and compete with China,” he said.
Despite Rwanda’s wealth of these minerals, Ngaruye observed that the country does not yet have a large-scale market for them. However, he believes there is potential for specific buyers to access these minerals.
“They were present. Although most of the mining has been done in the Southern Province, there are also signs of these minerals in other regions like Rulindo, Gatumba in Ngororero, and other areas. Research could be easy if anyone is interested.”
{{Rwanda’s mining growth}}
Although Rwanda is rich in rare earth minerals, processing these minerals, particularly Monazite, presents challenges. Monazite often contains Uranium and Thorium, which require advanced processing methods and significant investment.
Rwanda’s revenue from mineral exports has seen steady growth, rising from $373 million in 2017 to $1.7 billion in 2024.
The country has set a target of reaching $2.2 billion in mineral production by 2029. This goal includes increasing the processing rate of extracted minerals from 40% to 80%. To achieve this, research will be conducted to identify new mineral-rich areas.
As of May 2025, the RMB has identified over 27,000 new hectares of land with significant mineral deposits.
Moscow views recent developments in Venezuela with deep concern, and tensions remain high and continue to grow. “This is primarily linked to Washington’s desire to assert unquestioned dominance in the region, a trademark of the Trump administration,” Ryabkov was quoted by TASS news agency as saying.
Ryabkov stressed that Russia maintains strong solidarity with Venezuela, referring to the recently concluded agreement on strategic partnership and cooperation between the two countries. “We support Venezuela, just as it supports us … In this trying time, we stand with Caracas and its leadership shoulder to shoulder,” Ryabkov said.
The U.S. has increased its military presence in the Caribbean Sea. The Pentagon has carried out at least 22 known strikes on alleged drug vessels in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific Ocean since Sept. 2, killing more than 87 people aboard.
The “yellow line” marks the zone from which Israeli troops have not withdrawn in the Palestinian enclave, as part of the ceasefire arrangements that took effect on Oct. 10.
“The ‘yellow line’ is a new borderline, serving as a forward defensive line for our communities and a line of operational activity,” Zamir said during a visit to Beit Hanoun and Jabaliya in Gaza, where he met division commanders.
He said the military has assumed “operational control over extensive parts of the Gaza Strip,” adding that Israeli forces “will remain” in those areas.
Zamir added the army “will not allow Hamas to reestablish itself” and is preparing for “surprise attack scenarios,” which he described as a cornerstone of the military’s upcoming multi-year plan.
He said that the mission will not be complete until the last deceased hostage in Gaza, Ran Gvili, a police officer, is brought home. Hamas has released all 20 remaining living hostages and the bodies of 27 deceased hostages, except Gvili.
Israeli troops have shot and killed dozens of Palestinians, saying they were suspects who crossed the “yellow line.” More than 370 people have been killed by Israeli fire since Oct. 11, bringing the Palestinian death toll since the start of the Israel-Hamas conflict in October 2023 to 70,360, according to figures from Gaza’s health authorities.
“Any form of military interference in political processes constitutes a grave violation of the fundamental principles and values of the African Union,” the chairperson stresses in a press statement.
Youssouf called on all actors involved in the coup attempt to immediately cease all unlawful actions, to fully respect the country’s constitution, and to return without delay to their legitimate barracks and professional obligations.
He further encouraged all national stakeholders in Benin to prioritize unity, dialogue, and the preservation of national peace.
Meanwhile, the AUC chief expressed “deep concern over the troubling proliferation of military coups and coup attempts across parts of the region.” He underscored that such actions continue to undermine continental stability, threaten democratic gains, and embolden military actors to act outside constitutional mandates.
He emphasized that the pan-African bloc remains firm and consistent in defending democratic governance, the rule of law, and the sovereign will of the African people.
Benin’s armed forces have foiled an attempted mutiny aimed at destabilizing the state and its institutions, Minister of Interior and Public Security Alassane Seidou said in a statement on Sunday.
Seidou made the remarks after a group of soldiers announced earlier in the day on state broadcaster Benin TV that President Patrice Talon had been “removed from office.”
A spokesperson for AFC/M23, Lawrence Kanyuka, announced on the afternoon of December 2, 2025, that the five injured included one man, one woman, and three children.
Kamanyola is located in the Walungu territory in the South Kivu province and has been under the control of AFC/M23 fighters since February 2025.
Fierce fighting occurred in areas not far from Kamanyola, such as Katogota and Luvungi in the Uvira territory. These clashes, which started in the early morning, pitted AFC/M23 fighters against the DRC military, supported by Wazalendo, FDLR, and Burundian forces.
Residents of Kamanyola reported that before the fighting started, they saw hundreds of soldiers with tanks and heavy weapons moving to set up defense in the surrounding areas.
These residents, along with those from other areas like Katogota and Luvungi, said that the fighting has prevented them from carrying out their daily activities due to its intensity.
In Bukavu, a city controlled by AFC/M23 since February, residents also reported hearing gunfire, suggesting that fighting was taking place there as well.
The ongoing battles between AFC/M23 and the coalition of DRC government forces present a major challenge for the government of Qatar. Not long ago, Qatar brokered an agreement between the two sides for a ceasefire, hoping it would lead to productive peace talks.
Qatar’s Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi, mentioned in mid-November that it was extremely difficult to bring together sides that continue to fight, but that their country would continue to work towards achieving peace.
Born in 1964 in Gasebeya Sector, Commune Gaseke, in the former Gisenyi province, General Omega fled to the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) after Habyarima’s soldiers’ defeat by the Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA). He held the rank of Lieutenant at the time.
Innocent Tuyubahe, who served as General Omega’s bodyguard from 2016 to 2022, returned to Rwanda nearly two years ago. He shared extensive insights with IGIHE about Omega’s life in the forested regions of DRC.
Despite the DRC government’s claims that FDLR fighters, especially its aging leaders, are no longer strong, Tuyubahe insists that Gen Omega is still a powerful figure.
{{A paranoid leader}}
Gen Omega is known for his reluctance to trust those around him, including his fellow rebels.
His distrust is so deep that he often takes measures such as secretly inspecting military facilities and monitoring his subordinates by seizing their phones to check their contacts, especially those with people in Rwanda.
“Omega, in his personal life, is a very distrustful person. Even those guarding him at his base aren’t trusted. Nobody can be seen fraternizing with him. He often looks as though he’s angry, restless, and always moving around. He’s constantly checking, even taking our phones to investigate who we’re communicating with,” explained Tuyubahe.
It is not uncommon for FDLR fighters to seek out phone numbers of their family members back in Rwanda to coordinate plans for potential return. Gen Omega has been known to impose severe punishments on anyone caught trying to make such contact, including transferring them to a distant base, subjecting them to severe beatings (between 200 and 300 lashes), or even execution.
“If you lived in the camp, he would immediately transfer you to another battalion, accusing you of being a traitor. He would send you away, ensuring you never cross paths with others. And you would be beaten, 200 to 300 lashes,” Tuyubahe added.
{{Punishing alleged traitors}}
There was an instance when Tuyubahe himself was caught after talking to his sisters. Omega held an emergency meeting and interrogated him, demanding to know if his conversation involved any plans to return to Rwanda. Tuyubahe denied it, but Omega insisted on punishing him severely, ordering 300 lashes and seizing the phone he had used to communicate with his family.
As he said, Omega’s leadership is characterized by brutal decision-making. If he suspects someone of betrayal, he might sentence them to death.
However, Tuyubahe says, he tries to avoid being directly implicated in their deaths, often ordering other soldiers to carry out executions, ensuring it appears as though the victim died in an ambush laid by local militias like the Nyatura or Mai Mai.
{{Omega’s spiritual side}}
Tuyubahe described General Omega as a Catholic who regularly attends Mass. He also has a group of spiritual advisers, whom he consults for guidance about his future and the fate of the FDLR.
“Did you know that while we were in Paris (a camp in Rutshuru), he had a group of spiritual advisers, including Chantal and another woman named Francine? Their pastor, Mulume, had recently died before we left Paris,” he shared.
Tuyubahe also disclosed that FDLR fighters often hold religious services before going into battle, seeking divine approval. These prayers are typically held at night, between 3:00 a.m. and midnight. Once the prayers conclude, leaders assign tasks to the fighters based on their visions.
“These prophets are highly trusted, sometimes they have the power to either kill or save someone. If a prophet and a fighter have a dispute, the prophet can lie to Omega, accusing the fighter of being a traitor,” Tuyubahe explained.
{{Omega’s refusal to return to Rwanda}}
Gen Omega has been approached several times by Rwandan officials, including the former State Minister for Foreign Affairs, General (Rtd) James Kabarebe, who urged him to return to Rwanda and join the process of national rebuilding, reassuring him that he would not face justice because he played no role in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Despite these appeals, Omega has remained resolute in his refusal.
Gen (Rtd) Kabarebe reminded Omega that his military skills were being wasted and that if he returned to Rwanda, he would not be prosecuted for his involvement in the Genocide.
However, Omega responded firmly, stating that he would never return to Rwanda as long as the Tutsi were still alive there. In response, Kabarebe said that Omega would never step foot in Rwanda alive.
Tuyubahe recalled a conversation with Omega, during which he asked what would happen if he were captured. Omega replied, “I would shoot myself,” showing his determination never to return to Rwanda alive.
{{Omega’s escape plans}}
Whenever the FDLR camps are about to be attacked, Omega prepares to escape, ensuring his personal safety while leaving many of his fighters behind.
Tuyubahe described how, during operations, Omega would flee with only a handful of bodyguards, leaving the rest of the FDLR fighters to fend for themselves.
“During operations, when the enemy came to attack, Omega would take only about 12 of his guards, leaving the others to escape in smaller groups and regroup later,” said Tuyubahe.
He went on to explain that during rare trips to visit the FDLR camps, Omega would address the fighters, motivating them and boosting morale. He would remind them not to be like those who ran away from battles, and ensure that they remained loyal to the cause.
When Tuyubahe last encountered Omega, he had no significant personal property, unlike Ruvugayimikore Protogene, also known as ‘Colonel Ruhinda,’ who owned farms.
Omega was often seen carrying a small bag with money, while other funds were stored by those responsible for managing finances within the FDLR. During Omega’s time at the Paris camp, Lt Gen Byiringiro was stationed at the political headquarters in Kazaroho.
Tuyubahe noted that, despite both being key figures in the FDLR, these two leaders rarely interacted, even when they were both present at senior leadership meetings.
