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In a statement released on Tuesday, the ministry said the EU states’ envoys were called in by Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Majid Takht Ravanchi and the relevant director generals at the ministry, describing the bloc’s labeling of the IRGC as “a strategic mistake and an unforgivable insult” to Iran.

According to the statement, the EU members’ ambassadors gave the assurance that they will relay Iran’s protest to their governments as soon as possible.

The EU decided last week to add the IRGC to the bloc’s terrorist list.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said on Monday the European ambassadors had been summoned by the ministry on Sunday and Monday.

Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said on Sunday his country considers EU militaries “terrorist groups” in response to the bloc’s action.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry has summoned the ambassadors of the European Union (EU)’s member states in strong protest to the bloc’s designation of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization.

Xinhua

Abdullah Othman Abdurrahim, a member of the team, posted the announcement on Facebook, stating that four masked gunmen carried out a “treacherous operation” by storming Gaddafi’s residence at noon in the city of Zintan.

The attackers reportedly disabled surveillance cameras before a “direct armed confrontation” ensued, resulting in his death.

The political team called on the Libyan judiciary and the international community to investigate the “crime” and identify the perpetrators and those who “masterminded” the attack. Authorities in Tripoli and Zintan have not yet confirmed the details of the incident.

Saif al-Islam Gaddafi has remained a significant and polarizing figure in Libya since the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that ended his father’s rule.

Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, the son of the late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, was killed in an armed attack in western Libya on Tuesday.

Xinhua

Citing unnamed sources, the Fars news agency reported that the drone “successfully” monitored military movements in areas adjacent to Iran and transmitted data to ground bases in real time. The report described such missions as vital for the “overall monitoring” of the region.

Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency quoted an informed source as saying that Iran had lost contact with one of its drones, the cause of which is under investigation and will be announced once it is determined.

The U.S. Central Command said earlier in the day that a U.S. F-35C warplane “was forced” to shoot down an Iranian Shahed-139 drone in the Arabian Sea. The command said the drone had “unnecessarily maneuvered” toward the USS Abraham Lincoln while the carrier was transiting international waters approximately 800 km from the Iranian coast.

According to the U.S. statement, the drone was shot down in “an act of self-defense.” No U.S. troops were injured, and no equipment was damaged in the encounter, the military said.

The encounter comes amid tentative prospects for U.S.-Iran talks in the coming days.

Earlier in the day, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said he had instructed the Foreign Ministry to pursue “fair and equitable” negotiations with the United States.

Writing on social media platform X, Pezeshkian said the move followed requests from regional governments to respond to a negotiation proposal from U.S. President Donald Trump. He said any talks must take place within a framework of “dignity, prudence and expediency.”

While Türkiye has offered to mediate, Tehran appears to be seeking to limit the scope of the discussions. U.S. outlet Axios, citing informed sources, reported that Iran prefers Oman as a venue and favors direct talks with Washington rather than a broader format involving Arab and Muslim states.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said consultations were underway to finalize a venue for talks expected in the coming days, the official IRNA reported. Baghaei said Türkiye, Oman, and several other regional countries had expressed readiness to host the talks, which Iran highly values.

The diplomatic push, however, has drawn resistance from Israel.

U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff arrived in Jerusalem on Tuesday for talks with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz, ahead of a possible meeting later this week with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi.

After the meeting, Netanyahu’s office said Iran “has repeatedly demonstrated it cannot be trusted to keep its promises.”

Israel’s public broadcaster Kan reported that Israeli officials are seeking U.S. assurances of “operational freedom of action” against Iran and are pressing for a complete halt to Tehran’s ballistic missile program and uranium enrichment.

Complicating matters further, Iran is also facing a diplomatic dispute with the European Union.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry said it summoned EU ambassadors on Tuesday to protest the bloc’s recent designation of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization over its role in the “crackdown” on nationwide protests. Tehran previously responded by designating EU militaries as “terrorist groups.”

Also on Tuesday, Iranian authorities said they had arrested 139 foreign nationals in the central city of Yazd during recent anti-government protests. The city’s police chief said those detained were involved in “organizing, inciting or directing unrest” and, in some cases, had contacts outside the country, according to Tasnim. The nationalities of those arrested were not disclosed.

Weeks of protests erupted across Iran from late December to January over the sharp depreciation of the rial. Initially peaceful, the demonstrations escalated into clashes that caused casualties and damage to mosques, government buildings, and banks. Tehran has blamed the unrest on the United States and Israel.

Israeli and U.S. naval forces participate in a joint drill in the Red Sea on Feb. 1, 2026.

Xinhua

Researchers from the University of Queensland’s (UQ) Frazer Institute studied cell interactions at cellular resolution in non-small cell lung carcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer, to better understand why some patients don’t respond to immunotherapy treatment, said a UQ statement on Wednesday.

Using machine-learning algorithms and computational approaches, the study, published in Nature Communications, examined how cells interact and metabolize glucose, which cancer cells thrive on, said Associate Professor Arutha Kulasinghe from UQ’s Frazer Institute.

“We were able to dive deep into the complex nature of cells, basically looking at the cells’ personal lives in the complex composition of a tumor, and found certain metabolic neighborhoods were associated with response and resistance to immunotherapy,” Kulasinghe said.

Immunotherapy is costly and benefits only a minority of patients, he said, adding that “it’s important to understand how to identify these patients, and those that might need combination or alternative therapies.”

Lead author James Monkman from UQ’s Frazer Institute said higher glucose uptake in cancer cells was associated with poorer outcomes.

“We know cancer cells love sugar, and we analyzed where glucose was being processed in the cells and where it wasn’t,” Monkman said. “You could have a region of a tumor processing glucose in a completely different way to another area of the tumor.”

The next step is to develop targeted treatments, such as with metabolic inhibitors, to make immunotherapy more effective, and eventually enable precision medicine tailored to each patient’s tumor, with plans to extend the approach to other cancers, the researchers said.

A cancer cell featuring metabolic uptake (in yellow) and vessels (in blue). Photo credit: The University of Queensland

Xinhua

In a communiqué released by Lawrence Kanyuka, Head of the Department of Communication, the armed group said the facility served as a central hub for the planning, coordination, and execution of drone operations, which it says were used in attacks against civilians as well as AFC/M23 positions in areas under its control.

The group said the drone strikes affected several territories in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, including Masisi, Walikale, Rutshuru, Lubero, Kalehe, Mwenga, and Minembwe.

'The AFC/M23 will never stand idly by while innocent civilians are systematically targeted,' the communiqué said, warning that the group would act 'to neutralise these threats at their source' if such attacks continue.

The statement also called on the Kinshasa government to make what it described as 'an unequivocal choice between peace and war,' adding that 'if it chooses peace, it must strictly respect the ceasefire.'

The AFC/M23 further rejected any attempt by the government to shift responsibility for the attack, asserting that it carried out the Kisangani operation.

“The AFC/M23 carried out the operation in Kisangani. The Kinshasa regime is fully aware of the military equipment it abandoned at the airports of Goma and Kavumu and must also understand that the use of drones and mercenaries is neither exclusive to nor the sole prerogative of Kinshasa,” the statement reiterated.

The group issued an appeal to the international community, urging immediate action to end abuses against civilians and to address impunity for alleged crimes.

“The AFC/M23 issues an urgent appeal to the international community to act without delay to put an end to the barbarity of the Kinshasa regime and to end impunity for crimes committed against civilians,” the AFC/M23 stated.

AFC/M23 rebel coalition announced on Tuesday that it destroyed a military drone command centre at Kisangani Airport during an operation carried out between January 31 and February 1, 2026.

Lawrence Kanyuka, Head of the Department of Communication, said the facility served as a central hub for the planning, coordination, and execution of drone operations, which it says were used in attacks against civilians as well as AFC/M23 positions in areas under its control.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The airline shared the update on X account, on February 4, 2026.

'Due to heavy fog causing low visibility at Kigali International Airport, some flights to and from Kigali may experience delays,' the statement read. RwandAir sincerely apologized for any inconvenience this may cause to affected passengers.

Under international aviation regulations and safety standards, adverse weather conditions, such as dense fog that reduces visibility below safe operational minimums, are a valid and recognized reason for airlines to delay, divert, or suspend flights.

Pilots and air traffic control prioritize safety, and proceeding in unsafe conditions could pose serious risks, including potential accidents.

Common weather-related triggers for such disruptions include heavy rainfall, strong crosswinds, dense fog, thunderstorms, extreme temperatures, or any factors deemed hazardous by aviation authorities.

Rwanda’s national carrier, RwandAir has announced that some flights to and from Kigali may experience delays due to heavy fog causing low visibility at Kigali International Airport.

IGIHE

The Sudan Doctors Network said the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) targeted several residential neighborhoods and the Al-Shartai Health Center. The group condemned the attack as a “flagrant violation” of international humanitarian law.

“Most of the victims were patients who were receiving treatment inside the health center at the time of the strike,” a witness in Kadugli told Xinhua, adding the attack occurred at 4:00 p.m. (1400 GMT).

The RSF did not immediately respond to the volunteer group’s report.

The strikes follow a strategic shift in the conflict. Earlier on Tuesday, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) said its units had finally entered the city, which has been besieged for more than two years by the RSF and the allied Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N).

The prolonged blockade has forced nearly 80 percent of Kadugli’s 183,750 residents to flee and caused severe food shortages, according to the UN data.

The RSF has intensified its campaign across the Kordofan region since October 2025, following its capture of El Fasher, the last major army stronghold in neighboring Darfur.

Sudan has been engulfed in a power struggle between the SAF and RSF since mid-April 2023. The war has killed tens of thousands and created the world’s largest displacement crisis.

IGIHE

The 19th National Dialogue Council held in 2024, adopted 13 resolutions aimed at strengthening economic growth, improving citizens’ livelihoods, and enhancing governance.

The State Minister for National Treasury at the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, Godfrey Kabera, has told Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA) that overall implementation stands at more than 80%.

He said agriculture has seen steady improvement, driven by expanded cultivated land, irrigation projects, and supporting infrastructure.

Projects such as the development of the Nyiramageni and Akanyaru wetlands, along with irrigation schemes in Kirehe, Kayonza, and other areas, have played a key role. These efforts were accompanied by investments in post-harvest handling and storage to reduce losses.

Kabera emphasized that access to markets is critical for agricultural and livestock products, noting that more than 4,200 kilometers of feeder roads have been upgraded and maintained to improve connectivity. He added that over 58% of these roads are currently in good condition.

On the resolution calling for the establishment of furniture workshops across the country and increased value addition, Kabera said improved management systems have been introduced to ensure sustainability and profitability.

He noted that the facilities have so far created employment for more than 370,000 people, highlighting their importance to the economy and household incomes.

In the area of skills development, 24 technical and vocational education and training (TVET) schools have been completed since the conclusion of the 19th National Dialogue Council, while 135 others have started offering vocational courses. As a result, each administrative sector now has access to TVET programmes.

Growing diaspora contribution

Efforts to engage Rwandans living abroad have continued to focus on investment promotion and increasing remittances. Data from the National Bank of Rwanda shows that remittances amounted to USD 502 million in 2024, compared to USD 505 million in 2023.

Kabera said members of the diaspora have been sensitized about investment opportunities in sectors such as construction, agriculture, manufacturing, and industry.

He added that diaspora investment reached USD 35 million, describing the figure as a positive sign of strong commitment by Rwandans abroad to national development.

Other outcomes of the Umushyikirano resolutions include identifying young Rwandans pursuing advanced studies abroad and encouraging them to return home upon completion. According to Kabera, more than 150 skilled professionals have already returned and been integrated into key sectors facing skills shortages.

The 20th National Umushyikirano Council meeting is scheduled to take place on February 5—6, 2026.

The word Umushyikirano translates to a meeting where participants are able to exchange ideas, share experiences and question each other. Today Umushyikirano is known as the National Dialogue Council.

As part of efforts to reconstruct Rwanda and nurture a shared national identity, the Government of Rwanda drew on aspects of Rwandan culture and traditional practices to enrich and adapt its development programs to the country’s needs and context.

The result is a set of Home Grown Solutions, culturally owned practices translated into sustainable development programs. One of these Home Grown Solutions is Umushyikirano.

Governed by the Rwandan Constitution (Article 168), Umushyikirano is a forum where participants debate issues relating to the state of the nation, the state of local government and national unity. The Office of the Prime Minister is responsible for the overall co-ordination of Umushyikirano.

The 19th National Dialogue Council held in 2024, adopted 13 resolutions aimed at strengthening economic growth, improving citizens’ livelihoods, and enhancing governance.

IGIHE

The appointment of Steward Soroba Budia, a member of the opposition United Democratic Party, appeared in a presidential order dated January 30. Local media quickly noted that Budia passed away in 2021, sparking widespread ridicule on social media.

In a short statement, the presidency announced the dismissal of Press Secretary David Amour Major and Valentino Dhel Maluet, the chief administrator in the Ministry of Presidential Affairs, without giving reasons. The statement thanked both officials for their service.

Amour later said the president’s office had relied on names submitted by stakeholders and that one party failed to properly verify the list, calling it an 'administrative oversight.' It remains unclear whether this explanation led to his removal.

The panel was created to help prepare the country for elections, though doubts remain about whether the vote will happen as planned.

South Sudan continues to face insecurity, with recent fighting displacing more than 180,000 people, according to the UN.

Previous elections have been repeatedly postponed, leaving Kiir in power since independence in 2011.

IGIHE

The data, covering new cancer cases diagnosed in 2023, were released on February 3, 2026, during RBC’s National Cancer Symposium, convened to discuss strategies and pathways to accelerate the elimination of cervical cancer by 2027.

In total, 5,635 new cancer cases were recorded in 2023. Among women, breast cancer topped the list with 719 new cases, compared to just 32 men diagnosed with the disease. Among men, prostate cancer was most prevalent, with 525 new cases.

Cervical cancer followed, with 664 new cases among women. Stomach cancer affected 271 women and 222 men. Liver cancer ranked fifth, with 195 men and 186 women diagnosed. Sixth was colorectal cancer, with 185 women and 145 men affected.

Blood cancers also ranked highly: leukaemia was diagnosed in 145 women and 158 men, while lymphoma affected 135 women and 114 men. Lung cancer was ninth, with 104 women and 76 men diagnosed, and oral cancer ranked tenth, affecting 60 women and 99 men.

RBC Director General Prof. Claude Mambo Muvunyi highlighted Rwanda’s goal to eliminate cervical cancer by 2027. Currently, nine of the country’s 30 districts have already achieved this milestone.

'Cervical cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among our mothers, sisters, and daughters. Yet it is one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer,” he said, adding, “For Rwanda, eliminating cervical cancer is not only a public health priority, it is a matter of equity, of defending women’s rights, and of securing the health of future generations'

This goal aligns with the internationally recognised “90-70-90” targets: 90% of girls should be fully vaccinated against HPV by age 15, 70% of women should be screened with a high-performance test by age 35 and again by 45, and 90% of women diagnosed with cervical disease should receive treatment. Rwanda has already exceeded the vaccination target, reached approximately 31% of the screening goal, and achieved 81% of the treatment target.

The estimated cost to fully achieve this goal is $27.8 million. RBC remains optimistic, citing strong government commitment and recent expansions in cancer care, including at Mituweli Hospital.

Dr. Maniragaba Théoneste, Director of the cancer control unit at RBC, emphasised the importance of early screening, noting that cervical cancer is highly treatable if detected in its initial stages.

'When detected at stage one or two, cancer can be cured before it spreads to other organs, such as the liver or brain. Early detection saves lives,' he said.

While the virus that causes cervical cancer (HPV) is sexually transmitted, symptoms of the disease may not appear for a decade or more. Donathile Akayezu, who recovered from cervical cancer last year, shared that she initially mistook her symptoms for a routine infection. Only after testing was the cancer detected.

'At first, I felt hopeless, but after treatment, I recovered and returned to my normal life. I continue regular check-ups but no longer take medication,' she said.

Efforts to eliminate cervical cancer continue to focus on vaccinating children and raising awareness among women about the importance of regular screening.

RBC’s National Cancer Symposium was convened to discuss strategies and pathways to accelerate the elimination of cervical cancer by 2027.

RBC Director General Prof. Claude Mambo Muvunyi highlighted Rwanda’s goal to eliminate cervical cancer by 2027.

Efforts to eliminate cervical cancer continue to focus on vaccinating children and raising awareness among women about the importance of regular screening.

IGIHE