“We expect to have complete and total dominance over Iranian airspace in the coming hours,” Leavitt said at the White House daily press briefing.
She added that deploying U.S. ground troops to Iran is not currently planned, though U.S. President Donald Trump said earlier he is open to the option in the future.
Earlier in the day, U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said at a Pentagon briefing that the U.S.-Israeli military operation against Iran is still in its early stages.
Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said U.S. forces will begin striking progressively deeper into the Iranian territory as operations expand.
Iran and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah have conducted their first coordinated attacks on Israel amid the ongoing escalation, the Israel Defence Forces told CNN on Wednesday.
On Saturday morning, U.S.-Israeli airstrikes against Iran killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, along with some of the leader’s family members, senior military commanders and civilians. Iran responded through waves of missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and U.S. bases across the Middle East.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Wednesday that the United States will have “complete and total dominance” over Iranian airspace in the next few hours.
In a communiqué issued on Wednesday, the regulator said the new pump prices will take effect from 6:00 am on March 5, 2026. The maximum retail price of gasoline (petrol), inclusive of Value Added Tax (VAT), will remain at Rwf 1,989 per litre, while diesel will be capped at Rwf 1,948 per litre.
The adjustment raises diesel from the Rwf 1,900 per litre rate that had been in place since November 2025. Petrol prices remain steady at the same level set during the review.
RURA Director General, Evariste Rugigana, said the revised pump prices “reflect prevailing trends in the international market for refined petroleum products, and measures taken by the Government of Rwanda to mitigate the impact of evolving global developments.”
Global fuel prices have recently surged by more than 10 percent following the escalation of tensions between the United States and Iran, which disrupted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping lane that handles about 20 percent of the world’s traded oil.
The Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa, recently highlighted the risk of rising fuel and commodity prices due to the global supply chain disruptions.
Speaking during an interview with the Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA), he reassured the public that Rwanda’s fuel reserves remain stable and that the government is closely monitoring the situation.
He added that, if necessary, alternative markets will be explored to ensure continued economic stability.
The maximum retail price of gasoline (petrol), inclusive of Value Added Tax (VAT), will remain at Rwf 1,989 per litre, while diesel will be capped at Rwf 1,948 per litre.
Among the major resolutions adopted was a Ministerial Order granting release on parole to 1,874 convicts. The decision forms part of ongoing justice and rehabilitation efforts aimed at facilitating reintegration into society under established legal procedures.
Senior appointments approved
Cabinet also approved several high-level appointments across public institutions, according to a communiqué issued by the Prime Minister, Dr. Nsengiyumva Justin.
At the National Bank of Rwanda (NBR)Board of Directors, the following members were appointed:
Mr. Mukete Diko Jacob
Ms. Dushimire Alice
Mr. Nsengumuremyi Cyridion
Ms. Nabaasa Judith
Mr. Mwizerwa Jean Claude
Dr. Batamuliza Jennifer
Ms. Muhongerwa K Judith
For the Appeal Tribunal for Refugees and Applicants for Refugee Status, Cabinet appointed:
Ms. Mukabagwiza Edda, Co-President
Mr. Rusanganwa Jean Damascene, Co-President
Ms. Mukanyundo Patricie, Member
Ms. Nyirinkwaya Immaculée, Member
Mr. Rudasigwa Joseph, Member
Mr. Mukama Augustin, Member
Mr. Ndabirora Kalinda Jean Damascene, Registrar
Within the Ministry of Local Government (MINALOC), appointments included:
Mr. Ingabire Jean Claude, Director General of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation
Ms. Mukobwa Justine, Executive Secretary of the National Council of Persons with Disabilities (NCPD)
Ms. Uwimanimpaye Jeanne d’Arc, Coordinator of Gitagata Rehabilitation Centre
Mr. Bizimana Servilien, Coordinator of Ngarama Rehabilitation Centre
At the Ministry of Environment, Cabinet appointed:
Dr. Biraro Mireille, Registrar of Land Titles
Mr. Twizeyeyezu Jean Pierre, Registrar of Land Titles
Mr. Uwaysenga Vedaste, Registrar of Land Titles
Ms. Kanyamugenge Akimana Adeline, Division Manager for Inspection at the National Land Authority
For the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board (RMB), the following officials were named:
Mr. Uwiduheye Jean d’Amour, Head of Department of Mines, Petroleum and Gas Exploration
Ms. Umuhorakeye Alice, Division Manager of Mining Extraction and Inspection
Mr. Maniragaba Ephrem, Division Manager of Mining Exploration
Ms. Kantengwa Catherine, Division Manager of Mining Cadaster and Digital Information
Key draft laws and policies
Beyond appointments and parole decisions, Cabinet approved several draft laws, including a draft organic law governing elections, a draft law on the National Commission for Human Rights, and a draft law regulating virtual assets businesses.
Cabinet also endorsed amendments to financing agreements between the Government of Rwanda and the International Fund for Agricultural Development relating to additional loans supporting small livestock markets and irrigation and watershed management projects.
In addition, members approved the National Anti-Money Laundering, Counter-Financing of Terrorism and Counter-Proliferation Financing (AML/CFT/CPF) Policy, applications for mineral and quarry licenses, a housing development agreement with Bauhaus International Rwanda Ltd, and the lease of state land to Kivu Waterfront Limited for investment purposes.
International engagements and upcoming events
Cabinet granted agrément to new diplomats representing Sweden, South Africa, and Cuba.
Ministers also briefed Cabinet on upcoming national and international engagements, including celebrations of International Women’s Day on 8 March 2026, Rwanda’s participation in the 70th Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, a three-month citizen outreach programme led by security organs, and preparations to host the International Astronautical Federation Global Space Conference on Climate Change (GLOC 2026) in June.
The Cabinet meeting was chaired by President Paul Kagame at at Urugwiro Village.
The military said the airstrikes now focus mainly on government targets in Tehran.
Earlier on Wednesday, Iran said 1,045 people had been killed in the country since Saturday as a result of the U.S.-Israeli operation.
Meanwhile, according to Israel’s Magen David Adom rescue service, Iranian missiles have killed at least 10 people in Israel.
The joint U.S.-Israeli military operation against Iran, entering its fifth day, has triggered a sharp escalation across the Middle East, setting off waves of missile exchanges, mounting casualties, and far-reaching political, security, and economic repercussions.
Iran said at total of 1,045 people had been killed in the country since Saturday as a result of the U.S.-Israeli operation.
The visit provided guests with a guided tour of the brewery, where they were introduced to the detailed journey of beer production – from the brewing process to packaging – showcasing the craftsmanship, expertise, and quality standards that define BRALIRWA’s brewing heritage.
For many of the visitors, the experience offered a deeper appreciation of the work behind the brands that continue to play a visible role during the Tour du Rwanda through fan experiences and nationwide activations.
The visit also served as an opportunity to strengthen relationships between BRALIRWA and the partners supporting the Tour du Rwanda, reinforcing the spirit of collaboration that helps deliver one of Africa’s most exciting cycling events.
As a Gold Sponsor of the Tour du Rwanda, Amstel – 100% Pure Malt – remains part of the celebration of cycling across Rwanda by bringing fans together through engaging experiences, including fan zones, community activities, and social rides.
The visit to the brewery in Rubavu therefore marked not only a moment of discovery for the guests but also a reminder of the partnerships and shared commitment that continue to make the Tour du Rwanda a growing symbol of sport, tourism, and community pride in Rwanda.
The visit to the brewery in Rubavu therefore marked a moment of discovery.The visit provided guests with a guided tour of the brewery, where they were introduced to the detailed journey of beer production. For many of the visitors, the experience offered a deeper appreciation of the work behind the brands that continue to play a visible role during the Tour du Rwanda.Guests arriving at the plant based in Rubavu District.
The initiative aimed at promoting domestic tourism while giving participants an immersive experience in the rich biodiversity of one of Rwanda’s most iconic wildlife destinations.
Participants expressed excitement as they explored Akagera’s scenic landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Celebrities, including Ish Kevin and DiezDola, joined fans for an unforgettable safari adventure at Akagera National Park.
The tour, held on Saturday, February 28, followed a successful inaugural trip to Nyungwe National Park. Organisers have since announced a third excursion scheduled for April in Bigogwe, Nyabihu District, as part of ongoing efforts to encourage Rwandans to discover the country’s natural attractions.
The highlight of the trip was the game drive, which took participants deep into the park’s wilderness. Akagera, renowned for its diverse wildlife species including lions, giraffes, zebras and elephants, offered guests an opportunity to observe animals in their natural habitat.
The group was fortunate to spot elephants, one of the iconic Big Five, during their adventure at Akagera National Park.
Although the group did not spot the complete Big Five, they encountered elephants, buffaloes and a rhinoceros during the drive.
Babu Rugemana, the event organiser, described wildlife viewing as a matter of chance.
“You may see them today, and you may not see them tomorrow,” he said, noting that safari experiences vary from one visit to another.
Families with their children had an amazing time at Akagera National Park, enjoying the beauty of nature and the thrill of wildlife sightings.
In addition to the game drive, participants enjoyed a boat safari on Lake Ihema, where they observed hippos, crocodiles and various bird species. The boat cruise provided a unique vantage point of the park’s ecosystem.
The tour also featured a guided nature walk led by conservation experts, who educated participants on Akagera’s ecological significance, conservation efforts and historical background.
Speaking to IGIHE, Amen Babu Rugemana expressed appreciation to the sponsors, partners and celebrities who supported and amplified the initiative.
He specifically acknowledged IGIHE and Choice Live for their sponsorship, and commended Coach Gael for backing the event, particularly in its appeal to young people.
“I’m thankful to everyone who made this trip a success, from our sponsors to the celebrities who shared their experiences. Their engagement plays a key role in promoting Rwanda’s wildlife and tourism potential,” he said.
The group was treated to the sight of giraffes gracefully roaming through Akagera National Park, adding to the awe of the safari experience.
Looking ahead, Rugemana reaffirmed plans for the upcoming April trip to Bigogwe in Nyabihu District.
“This is just the beginning. We want to continue creating opportunities for more people to explore Akagera and other unique destinations across Rwanda,” he added.
Akagera National Park continues to play a vital role in Rwanda’s conservation and tourism sectors. Located in eastern Rwanda, the park is home to the Big Five, lions, elephants, buffaloes, rhinos, and leopards, making it one of the region’s premier wildlife destinations.
In recent years, visitor numbers have steadily grown, reaching 59,538 in 2025, a 5.4% increase over the previous year.
This growth, alongside ongoing conservation and restoration initiatives and the park’s achievement of 100% operational self-sufficiency in 2025, underscores Akagera’s importance as both a cornerstone of Rwanda’s natural heritage and a key driver of the country’s ambition to become a global leader in sustainable tourism.
Osmarito, the popular TikToker, was also part of the adventure at Akagera National Park, sharing his experience with fans and capturing the beauty of Rwanda’s wildlife.IGIHE journalists were also on the ground at Akagera National Park, capturing the essence of the adventure and sharing the unforgettable moments of the safari.The group was thrilled to spot zebras during the safari tour at Akagera National Park. The day at Akagera National Park offered a variety of entertainment activities.
In a post published on X, Destexhe criticised recent U.S. sanctions imposed on Rwanda’s military and defended Kigali’s position in the ongoing eastern Congo conflict.
“It is the DRC (Congo) that should be sanctioned, not Rwanda,” he wrote. “The DRC ignited this conflict by persecuting Congolese Tutsis.”
Destexhe accused Kinshasa of failing to uphold its commitments under international agreements, including United Nations Security Council Resolution 2773, and of maintaining ties with the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a militia group formed by individuals responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi who fled to the DRC. He further pointed out that the Congolese government finances extremist Wazalendo militias and collaborates with foreign mercenaries.
According to Destexhe, ongoing bombings in Minembwe and drone strikes in eastern Congo demonstrate what he described as indiscriminate attacks affecting civilians. He argued that the ultimate objective of Kinshasa’s military posture appears to be confrontation with Rwanda.
His comments come days after the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced sanctions against the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) as an institution and four senior military officials, including Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Mubarakh Muganga and other top commanders. Washington accused Rwanda of backing the AFC/M23 rebel coalition operating in eastern Congo, allegations Kigali has consistently denied.
The Rwandan government expressed regret over the March 2, 2026, sanctions, calling them “unjust” and “one-sided.” In a statement, Kigali said the measures misrepresent the conflict and unfairly target only one party to the peace process.
Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo signed the Washington Accords in Washington, D.C., on December 4, 2025, aimed at restoring stability in eastern Congo. Under the agreement, Kinshasa committed to an irreversible and verifiable end to state support for the FDLR. However, the militia group remains active in the region despite the commitments outlined in the agreement.
Rwanda maintains that its actions along the border are defensive measures prompted by repeated attacks, including cross-border incidents.
In his post, Destexhe sharply criticised Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi, alleging corruption and mismanagement, and arguing that the Congolese military is incapable of securing a decisive victory against M23. He urged U.S. policymakers to reconsider their approach.
“Wake up, America!” he stated.
Alain Destexhe, a former Belgian senator and researcher, has criticised recent U.S. sanctions imposed on Rwanda’s military and defended Kigali’s position in the ongoing eastern Congo conflict.
Known for a lifetime of overland journeys with her husband Alan, 85, Cooper has recently returned from Rwanda, after 14 years since her husband first visited and she initially declined to join him.
In an interview with BBC, she recounted her experiences in the East African nation, painting a vivid picture of its natural beauty and warm hospitality.
“I was really surprised. It was like one vast botanical garden. Green, lush plants and flowers everywhere, the people were friendly, the food terrific,” Cooper said.
Her description highlights Rwanda’s lush landscapes, often dubbed the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” where rolling green vistas, vibrant flora, and a welcoming atmosphere create an almost garden-like serenity.
Cooper and her husband Alan, have been backpacking the globe together since shortly after their marriage, embracing a spontaneous, off-the-beaten-path style of travel that has taken them across continents.
Their adventures began with overland journeys, including a memorable route through India, Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan.
Over the decades, they have ventured into the Middle East and South Asia extensively, often booking flights to a destination and then relying on local hotels, public transport, and a sense of adventure to navigate from there.
Reflecting on their nomadic lifestyle, Cooper explained how external events sometimes extended their stays in unexpected ways.
“We decided we would go to Canada or Australia. We were going to go overland to India and get a boat to Australia. But when we got to India, there was the Arab-Israeli War. That trip was about eight months!” she recalled.
Cooper also reflected on how recent conflicts in the region reminded her of times past.
“That was when the Shah was in power in Iran. It was very civilized. As we approached a town, there was always a big roundabout planted with trees and flowers to welcome you. And people were lovely, friendly, educated,” she recalled, drawing a connection between past travels and present news.
Ann Cooper started backpacking with her husband Alan two years after they got married and the couple have maintained their wanderlust ever since.
The overall populations of China’s wild fauna and flora are showing a steady upward trend, according to the administration. Latest monitoring data indicates that wild populations of flagship species, including giant pandas, snow leopards and Siberian tigers, have kept growing.
Wild populations of endangered plant species have also recorded notable recoveries. The number of Abies beshanzuensis in the wild has exceeded 4,000 individuals, while Manglietiastrum sinicum has grown to 15,000 individuals. The population of Paphiopedilum purpuratum has also increased to more than 200 individuals.
Looking ahead to the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030), the administration said it will launch a series of key wildlife conservation projects and advance international cooperation regarding giant panda conservation and wildlife treaty compliance, in a bid to promote the high-quality development of wildlife conservation in China.
Researchers from UC Santa Barbara, UC San Francisco, and the City University of New York have linked decades of climate and weather data to a multinational cohort of 2.2 million people living with or at risk for HIV.
The study, published in GeoHealth and supported by the National Institutes of Health, highlights how EWEs affect HIV treatment and public health.
“People living with HIV are an especially vulnerable population, many of whom live in areas that are historically and/or increasingly prone to severe weather events,” said UCSB geographer Frank Davenport.
The research focused on 777 HIV clinics in the NIH-funded IeDEA network, tracking drought exposure from 1981 to 2023 and flood exposure from 2006 to 2023.
Lead author Sophia Arabadjis explained, “But when you have disruptions like floods and droughts, where people may not have access to the right drugs, care or basic food/water supplies, the viral load begins to build in these patients.”
Droughts typically have indirect effects, increasing food insecurity and prompting migration or transactional work that can disrupt treatment.
Floods often cause immediate damage to infrastructure, displacing patients and making clinic access difficult, while also raising the risk of waterborne or mosquito-borne diseases.
Southern Africa’s IeDEA sites are currently most exposed to both drought and flood risks. Arabadjis emphasized that “pinpointing which clinics are at-risk helps us target resources and mitigation efforts across the network.”
While the study does not examine patient-specific outcomes, it provides a foundational record for future research and could inform policies to protect HIV patients during extreme weather events.
