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The offensive will later target refugee camps in central Gaza and the southern area of Al Mawasi, where most of Gaza’s 2.2 million residents have taken shelter, according to a statement by the Israeli military.

The principles of the plan were approved in a meeting of security officials earlier on Wednesday, the statement said, adding that “the central concept for the plan for the next stages in the Gaza Strip was presented and approved, in accordance with the directive of the political echelon.”

Zamir’s approval came three days after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the military had been ordered to enter the “decisive stage” of the Gaza war, aimed at seizing the remaining Hamas strongholds in Gaza City, refugee camps in central Gaza, and Al Mawasi’s southern area, an order widely condemned amid Gaza’s worsening humanitarian crisis.

It also came as Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar told a press briefing on Wednesday that Israel rejects a two-state solution and “will not allow” the establishment of a Palestinian state.

On Sunday, a rare emergency weekend meeting held by the UN Security Council saw widespread outrage at the Israeli plan. Yet the session ended with no resolution as the United States, a veto-wielding permanent member of the Security Council, sided with Israel.

“If these (Israeli) plans are implemented, they will likely trigger another calamity in Gaza, reverberating across the region and causing further forced displacement, killings, and destruction, compounding the unbearable suffering of the population,” UN Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia and the Americas Miroslav Jenca warned the Council.

On Monday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan slammed Israel over Gaza and accused Netanyahu of running a “network of massacres” and seeking to prolong his political survival at the cost of further bloodshed in the region.

On late Tuesday, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and his Saudi counterpart Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud held a phone conversation, during which they reiterated rejection of the Israeli plan, calling it “an attempt to deepen the illegal occupation of the Palestinian territories, continue the genocide war against the unarmed Palestinians, undermine their right to self-determination and establish their independent state.”

They also regarded the plan as “a blatant violation of international law and humanitarian international law,” read a statement released Wednesday by the Egyptian Foreign Ministry.

Meanwhile, Mahmoud Basal, the spokesperson for Gaza’s civil defense, told Xinhua at least 41 Palestinians were killed in Israeli attacks across Gaza on Wednesday.

In southern Gaza, 12 people were killed by Israeli army gunfire while waiting to receive food near an aid center southwest of Khan Younis. In central Gaza, five people were killed and 10 others injured as the Israeli army targeted civilian gatherings near the aid distribution point at the Netzarim axis. Four were killed by Israeli fire while waiting for aid near Kissufim, east of Deir al-Balah, Basal said.

In Gaza City, at least 12 were killed during an Israeli airstrike at the home of the Abu Daf family in the Zeitoun neighborhood, east of the city, and eight others, including five children, were killed when tents housing displaced people were targeted in the Tal al-Hawa neighborhood, south of the city, Basal said.

According to local eyewitnesses, the Israeli army continued to demolish residential buildings in Rafah, Khan Younis, and eastern Gaza, in addition to artillery shelling in the eastern outskirts.

The developments came as a delegation of Hamas leaders, headed by Khalil Al-Hayya, on Wednesday continued its meetings in Cairo with Egyptian officials on ceasefire negotiations in Gaza.

Egypt’s Al-Qahera News channel, citing an Egyptian official source, reported that the delegation arrived in Cairo on Tuesday to discuss resuming Gaza ceasefire talks, to reach a temporary 60-day truce agreement.

However, Netanyahu told Israeli broadcaster i24 on Tuesday in an interview that Israel is “not going back to partial agreements,” accusing Hamas of “misleading” Israel, without providing details.

Gaza-based health authorities reported on Wednesday eight more deaths from famine and malnutrition in the past 24 hours, including three children, bringing the total number of hunger-related deaths to 235, including 106 children.

The total number of people killed by Israeli strikes since October 2023 has risen to 61,722, with another 154,525 wounded, according to the health authorities.

This photo released by Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Aug. 13, 2025 shows Israel’s military chief Eyal Zamir attending a meeting of security officials. (IDF/Handout via Xinhua)

Xinhua

In a report released on Wednesday, August 13, the survey found that 81% of respondents felt financially hopeful in the second quarter, buoyed by 7.8% GDP growth in the first quarter and government measures to strengthen key industries.

Thirty-eight percent reported household income growth in the past three months, five percentage points higher than a year ago, while 37% said their finances were better than expected.

'Rwandan consumers are demonstrating remarkable resilience and optimism in the face of economic challenges. The strong sense of financial hope reflects a broader national momentum toward inclusive growth,” said Thabo Molefe, head of Africa regions, TransUnion.

Financial pressure persists

According to the survey, job losses were the most common setback, affecting 29% of households. In addition, 20% reported wage cuts, 14% had reduced working hours, and 12% saw a household business close or lose orders.

Looking ahead, 51% expect to miss at least one bill or loan payment in the next three months. To manage, 39% plan to make partial payments, 39% intend to take on gig work, and 39% will use money from savings.

Shifts in spending

Consumer behaviour suggests cautious spending growth. Thirty-eight percent expect to increase discretionary spending in the next quarter, compared with 30% who expect to cut back. Rising costs are anticipated for medical services (45%) and digital services (42%).

The survey also highlights gaps in credit access. Almost all respondents (99%) said access to credit is important, but only 41% felt they had enough access. Over half (55%) plan to apply for new or refinanced credit within the next year, with personal loans (46%), student loans (26%), and home loans (23%) as the most common goals.

However, 49% abandoned credit applications, mainly due to high borrowing costs (27%), concerns about income or employment (22%), and lengthy application processes (19%).

Fraud concerns

More than half (58%) of respondents reported being targeted by fraud in Q2, with high-income consumers reporting the highest rate (59%). The most common scams were gift card fraud (49%), phishing (31%), and vishing (28%).

Cybersecurity risks remain a barrier to digital adoption, with 37% citing online threats and 30% worried about identity theft. While 72% have access to their credit information, concerns over privacy invasion (63%) and identity theft (59%) are widespread.

Molefe said improving access to credit and building trust in digital platforms will be critical to sustaining consumer confidence.

“As access to credit and digital trust become increasingly vital, it’s clear that empowering consumers with the right tools and protections will be key to sustaining this positive trajectory.”

TransUnion is a global information and insights company with over 13,000 associates operating in more than 30 countries, including Botswana, Kenya, Malawi, Namibia, Rwanda, South Africa, eSwatini, and Zambia.

The latest findings are based on TransUnion’s Consumer Pulse Survey of 345 adults, conducted between 5 and 25 May 2025 in partnership with third-party research provider Dynata. The survey targeted Rwandan residents aged 18 and above, using an online research panel accessed via desktop, mobile, and tablet devices.

Most Rwandans are optimistic about their financial future despite ongoing economic pressures, according to TransUnion’s Q2 2025 Consumer Pulse Study.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The event will mark the first time the prestigious cycling competition is held in Africa.

In a public notice issued on Wednesday, the government announced that temporary road closures will be in effect along designated race routes during specific hours. Residents and visitors are advised to plan ahead and use clearly marked alternative routes.

All schools within Kigali City will close for the duration of the championships, with the Ministry of Education coordinating with administrators and parents to ensure a smooth transition.

Additionally, the government has encouraged public servants to work remotely, except for those providing essential services. Private institutions are also urged to adopt virtual work arrangements where feasible.

“Private institutions capable of remote work are strongly encouraged to adopt virtual working arrangements during the championship,” the notice reads in part.

Citizens and visitors have also been invited to experience the event, with Fan Zones set up across Kigali for close-up views of the competition.

“Alternative and detour routes will be clearly marked and communicated in advance, in coordination with traffic authorities, to minimize disruptions caused by road closures,” the notice adds.

The UCI Road World Championships is an annual international road cycling competition, bringing together national teams from around the world under the organisation of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI).

The event is expected to attract numerous participants from across the globe, along with visitors who will come for both the event and tourism activities.

First held in 1921 in Copenhagen, Denmark, the most recent edition of the championship took place in Zürich, Switzerland, in 2024.

The UCI Road World Championships is an annual international road cycling competition, bringing together national teams from around the world under the organisation of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI).

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The remains, believed to belong to prominent leaders of the 1896—1897 uprising against colonial rule known historically as the First Chimurenga, were seized by British forces after brutally suppressing the revolt.

Among them are the skulls of revered spiritual leaders Mbuya Nehanda and Sekuru Kaguvi, as well as chiefs such as Chinengundu Mashayamombe and Makoni Chingaira, who played key roles in resisting settler expansion.

For decades, the remains were held in European institutions, including the Natural History Museum in London, the University of Cambridge’s Duckworth Laboratory, and an unidentified museum in Switzerland. According to Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, at least 11 sets of remains are confirmed in the UK, with others believed to be in South Africa.

The agreement follows years of lobbying by Zimbabwe, with calls for repatriation dating back to the presidency of Robert Mugabe, who in 2015 described the retention of the skulls as 'one of the highest forms of racist moral decadence.' Negotiations gained momentum in recent years, leading to formal commitments from UK museums to return the remains.

An inter-ministerial committee comprising the Ministries of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, and Local Government has been tasked with coordinating the repatriation process. Its responsibilities include resource mobilisation, developing a formal programme for the return, and ensuring adherence to cultural protocols in consultation with traditional leaders and descendants of the fallen heroes.

Authorities are also planning to construct a high-tech storage and preservation facility to house the remains upon their return. This will serve both as a conservation site and a memorial to the leaders who paid the ultimate price in resisting colonial conquest.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ambassador Raphael Faranisi, confirmed to the local media that the process has entered its first phase.

'We hope to complete the repatriation in the shortest time possible,' he said, adding that cultural sensitivity will guide every step.

The announcement came earlier this week as Zimbabwe marked its 45th Heroes Day commemorations, which honour those who fought for the nation’s liberation.

The return of the heroes’ remains mirrors similar repatriation efforts across Africa, such as Namibia’s successful retrieval of Herero and Nama remains from Germany in 2018.

The remains includes the skulls of revered spiritual leaders Mbuya Nehanda and Sekuru Kaguvi, as well as chiefs such as Chinengundu Mashayamombe and Makoni Chingaira, who played key roles in resisting settler expansion.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Her death has drawn condolences from across Africa and the international community.

The President of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, extended sympathies to her family and to the people of Rwanda.

The Chief of Staff in the Office of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Souef Mohamed El-Amine, also expressed sorrow over her passing, describing her as a leader dedicated to building connections between people from Kigali to the United Nations.

Dr. Kacyira’s career spanned senior roles both in Rwanda and abroad. She served as a Member of Parliament from 2003 to 2006 before becoming Mayor of Kigali from 2006 to 2011. She was then appointed Governor of the Eastern Province, serving briefly in that capacity.

During her tenure as Mayor of Kigali, she was recognised in 2008 by UN-Habitat for transforming the city into a model of cleanliness, tranquillity, and sustainable development.

Her efforts also included promoting affordable housing and creating accessible job opportunities for residents.

From 2011 to 2018, Dr. Kacyira was the Deputy Executive Director of UN-Habitat. She also held the role of Project Director in Rwanda’s Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources and worked with international organisations such as Oxfam and Care International.

In 2020, she was appointed Rwanda’s Ambassador to Ghana, with concurrent accreditation to Benin, Togo, Sierra Leone, Côte d’Ivoire, and Liberia. In 2023, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres appointed her Head of the UN Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS), a position she held until her passing.

Dr. Kacyira held a master’s degree in Veterinary Science in Animal Production and Economics from James Cook University in Australia, and a bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Medicine from Makerere University in Uganda.

Ambassador Dr. Aissa Kirabo Kacyira, who served in senior roles within the Rwandan government and in international organisations, died on August 12, 2025 at the age of 61, following an illness.

IGIHE

They are accused of offences linked to the alleged illegal purchase of airline tickets using a Ministry of Defence account.

The case relates to APR FC’s trip to Egypt in September 2024 to play Pyramids FC in the CAF Champions League, a visit that included members of the press among the travelling party.

Those appearing before the court include RCS spokesperson CSP Hillary Sengabo, CSP Olive Mukantabana, and three RDF officers, among them Captain Peninah Mutoni and Captain Peninah Umurungi.

Civilian defendants include journalist Ndayishimiye Reagan, known as Rugaju, Ishimwe Ricard, and former journalist Mucyo Antha Biganiro.

Military prosecutors accuse the group of complicity in receiving and issuing unauthorised documents, as well as complicity in the misuse of public funds for purposes other than those intended.

RCS spokesperson CSP Hillary Sengabo is among individuals connected to the case.

IGIHE

The sanctions target PARECO-FF for overseeing mining sites in Rubaya, a mineral-rich region, where the group collected illegal fees, engaged in smuggling, and committed human rights abuses, including forced labour and executions.

The group emerged in 2022 as a successor to PARECO, in response to the rise of the M23 rebel group.

In addition to PARECO-FF, the Treasury sanctioned the Congolese mining company Cooperative des Artisanaux Miniers du Congo (CDMC), which operated on Rubaya’s largest mining concession and sold minerals sourced from areas controlled by PARECO-FF. Two Hong Kong-based companies, East Rise Corporation Limited and Star Dragon Corporation Limited, were also sanctioned for buying minerals from CDMC.

'The conflict minerals trade is exacting a deadly toll on Congolese civilians, fueling corruption, and preventing law-abiding businesses from investing in the DRC,' said Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence John K. Hurley.

'The Treasury Department will not hesitate to take action against groups that deny the United States and our allies access to the critical minerals vital for our national defence.'

Under the sanctions, all property and interests in property of the designated entities within the U.S. or controlled by U.S. persons are blocked. Transactions involving these entities are prohibited unless authorised by Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).

The sanctions target PARECO-FF for overseeing mining sites in Rubaya, a mineral-rich region, where the group collected illegal fees, engaged in smuggling, and committed human rights abuses, including forced labour and executions.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The medal ceremony took place at the Bossembele Base Camp, located in Ombella-M’Poko Prefecture. It was presided over on behalf of the MINUSCA Force Commander, by Col Mohamed Said, Deputy Sector Commander for Sector West.

Col Mohamed Said appreciated the Rwandan contingent for their contribution to the peacekeeping mission. He also emphasized that the UN service medals symbolize appreciation for peacekeepers who demonstrate dedication, professionalism, and commitment to protecting civilians and restoring peace in accordance with the mission’s mandate.

'On behalf of MINUSCA force commander and entire MINUSCA leadership let me congratulate you, for the past ten months in which you have served with unwavering courage, professionalism and dedication in one of the most challenging peacekeeping environments.

“Your commitment in protecting civilians, supporting stability and upholding the principles of the United Nations has left a lasting impact on the local communities in your areas of responsibility, “he said.

He further expressed his appreciation to the leadership of the Rwanda Defence Force for maintaining a highly trained, well-equipped, and mission-ready force, underscoring Rwanda’s continued commitment to international peacekeeping effort.

Lt Col Ndanyuzwe Muzindutsi, the RWABAT-2 contingent commander, appreciated the MINUSCA Leadership and local government for their support and collaboration during the mission. He said the medals are a motivation to peacekeepers to continue their duties with courage and sacrifice.

Throughout their deployment, the Rwandan contingent, RWABAT-2, conducted a range of operations along Main Supply Route One linking Bangui to Cameroon.

These included patrols, supply convoy escorts, and road clearance activities—all aimed at ensuring the security and accessibility of the vital corridor linking Bangui to Cameroon.

IGIHE

The delegation, comprising representatives of 15 members of the AU Peace and Security Council (AUPSC), engaged with South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir and other political leaders on the ongoing implementation of the revitalized peace accord as well as the December 2026 elections, which will end the transition period in the conflict-hit country.

“The council stressed the need to ensure the full implementation of the remaining tasks in the revitalized agreement, and called for a permanent ceasefire and protection of civilians and humanitarian workers,” the AUPSC said in a statement.

Commending the commitment expressed by South Sudanese political leaders for the completion of the transition process, the council called for “an inclusive political high-level dialogue among the political leaders for an amicable resolution of the current political situation in the country.”

The AUPSC reaffirmed its “continued dedication to support South Sudan to end the conflict and ensure a successful completion of the transition period,” expressing its unwavering support to South Sudan toward the organization of the December 2026 elections.

According to the AU, the field mission was undertaken as an expression of the AU’s solidarity with the people of South Sudan. The delegation’s visit came as regional diplomatic efforts intensified to shore up the faltering revitalized peace deal.

South Sudan, which gained independence in 2011 following decades of struggle and a protracted peace process, has navigated a precarious path between restoring peace and enduring instability, most notably in 2013 and more recently in 2016, when widespread conflict triggered the initiation of internal peace processes.

Xinhua

According to the newspaper, preparations are underway to schedule a visit by Modi to the U.S. in the last week of September.

“The key objective will be to iron out the issues on trade and arrive at a common ground on tariffs,” the newspaper said.

Indian PM to is expected to meet Trump next month in U.S.

Xinhua