South Africa’s Health Minister, Aaron Motsoaledi, has hailed the introduction of lenacapavir, the world’s first twice-yearly HIV prevention injection, as a groundbreaking development in the fight against the disease. However, he cautioned that the initial supply, funded by a $29.2 million Global Fund grant and an additional $5 million from the Networking HIV and AIDS Community of Southern Africa (NACOSA), will be limited to nearly half a million people in the country with the highest HIV prevalence rate. The rollout is scheduled to begin in April 2026, targeting 23 high-incidence districts across six provinces and 360 high-performing public clinics. Motsoaledi emphasized that prioritizing vulnerable populations in high-burden areas would maximize the impact in preventing new infections. The announcement follows the U.S. government’s recent pledge to purchase 2 million doses of the drug for low-income countries. Despite the optimism, Motsoaledi warned against complacency, citing the severe impact of abrupt funding cuts from USAID and other U.S. sources in early 2025 on HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis programs. While Gilead Sciences has reduced the annual cost of lenacapavir to $40 per person, South Africa aims to fund the program independently, with long-term sustainability dependent on integrating the drug into local systems. The World Health Organization has endorsed lenacapavir as an additional prevention option, and Gilead is expediting its registration in 18 high-incidence countries, including South Africa, until generic versions become available in 2027. However, the exclusion of South African manufacturers from Gilead’s voluntary licensing agreements has sparked criticism, with civil society leaders accusing the company of neglecting principles of fairness and inclusivity. Despite these challenges, UNAIDS has welcomed the investment, highlighting the potential of long-acting injectable medicines to reduce barriers to HIV prevention and expand choices for at-risk populations.
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Trump: ‘I’m talking about rebuilding Gaza’
During a press briefing aboard Air Force One, President Donald Trump addressed questions regarding the stability of the recently negotiated ceasefire in Gaza. The BBC’s Tom Bateman pressed the President on whether the fragile truce would hold. Trump responded by emphasizing his focus on the broader vision of rebuilding Gaza, stating, ‘I’m talking about rebuilding Gaza.’ This statement underscores the administration’s commitment to not only maintaining peace but also fostering long-term development in the region. The ceasefire, brokered amidst escalating tensions, has been a critical point of discussion in international diplomacy. Trump’s remarks suggest a shift from immediate conflict resolution to sustainable reconstruction efforts, potentially signaling a new phase in U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East.
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‘Biggest thing since independence’ – Cape Verde celebrates World Cup spot
In a historic moment for Cape Verde, the small Atlantic archipelago nation secured its first-ever qualification for the FIFA World Cup. The Blue Sharks achieved this milestone with a decisive 3-0 victory over Eswatini in their final qualifying match, sparking nationwide celebrations. The winning goal, scored by Stopira in the 91st minute, sent fans into a frenzy, with the National Stadium in Praia erupting in a sea of blue, red, and white flags. For Cape Verde, a former Portuguese colony with a population of just over half a million, this achievement is being hailed as the most significant event since gaining independence in 1975. Head coach Bubista described the moment as ‘enormous,’ emphasizing its importance during the nation’s 50th anniversary of independence. The celebrations extended beyond the stadium, with fans gathering at fan zones across the islands and the party continuing at the Estadio da Varzea, a venue steeped in historical significance. Cape Verde now joins the ranks of the smallest nations to qualify for the World Cup, following Iceland. The team’s success has ignited hope for future achievements, with technical director Rui Costa drawing parallels to other African nations that have used World Cup qualification as a catalyst for transformation. As Cape Verde prepares for its debut on the global stage, the nation is united in pride and anticipation, ready to showcase its talent and passion for football to the world.
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Can Trump’s ‘shock and awe’ doctrine extend beyond Gaza?
U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent visit to Israel and Egypt marked a pivotal moment in his second term, as he oversaw the initial implementation of the Gaza peace agreement. This accord, aimed at ending the two-year conflict in the region, is being hailed as a potential cornerstone of Trump’s foreign policy legacy, potentially surpassing the Abraham Accords of his first term, which normalized relations between Israel and several Arab nations. The swift negotiation of this ceasefire has brought renewed attention to the so-called ‘Trump Doctrine’—a high-energy, unconventional approach to global diplomacy. Central to this doctrine is a leaner, more agile decision-making structure within the administration. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who also serves as National Security Adviser, has streamlined the National Security Council, reducing staff from 350 to 150. This restructuring has enabled faster, more decisive action, though it has not been without controversy. For instance, the use of Signal app group chats for classified discussions led to security concerns and the ousting of Trump’s first national security adviser, Michael Waltz. Rubio has since implemented a more sustainable communication method, relying on direct channels with key advisers like Chief of Staff Susie Wiles. The administration’s reliance on special envoys, such as Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, has also drawn both praise and criticism. While their unorthodox roles have facilitated high-level negotiations, questions about conflicts of interest persist. Trump’s personal diplomacy, characterized by a ‘shock and awe’ approach, has been instrumental in securing the Gaza deal. His ability to balance public support for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with private interventions, such as preventing the annexation of the West Bank, underscores his unique style. However, the sustainability of these breakthroughs remains uncertain. Critics point to the vagueness of Trump’s 20-point peace plan and the potential for it to unravel. As Trump pursues separate diplomatic deals with China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, the true test of his doctrine will be whether he can drive a wedge between these adversaries and weaken their strategic alliances. The Gaza accord may be a significant achievement, but its long-term impact on global geopolitics is yet to be seen.
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24 hours with Trump on diplomatic tornado through Middle East
In a whirlwind diplomatic tour, former U.S. President Donald Trump heralded a ‘historic day’ as a ceasefire agreement in Gaza came into effect, marking a pivotal moment after two years of devastating conflict. Trump, speaking to the BBC’s Tom Bateman aboard Air Force One, described the deal as a turning point in the millennia-long strife of the region, asserting that ‘everlasting peace’ had been achieved under his leadership. The agreement, brokered in Doha, saw the cessation of major combat operations, the release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, and the partial withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza. Trump’s visit to Israel was marked by grand gestures, including a fly-by of a beach displaying a giant ‘thank you’ sign and a red-carpet welcome from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. However, the fragility of the truce and the challenges of rebuilding Gaza loom large, with Trump’s optimism met by skepticism about the sustainability of the peace. The U.S. president’s speech in the Knesset, where he was hailed as the ‘president of peace,’ was a mix of celebration and political rhetoric, as he attacked his domestic opponents and appealed for Netanyahu’s pardon. The day concluded in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, where Trump presided over a signing ceremony, declaring it had taken ‘3,000 years’ to reach this point, yet acknowledging the long road ahead for lasting peace in the Middle East.
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Iran sentences 2 French citizens to a combined 63 years over espionage charges
In a move that is expected to escalate tensions between Iran and France, an Iranian court has sentenced two French nationals to a combined 63 years in prison on charges of espionage and national security violations. The verdict was announced on Tuesday by the Iranian judiciary, with the semiofficial Fars news agency identifying the individuals as Cecile Kohler and Chuck Paris. The two have been detained since 2022, with French authorities dismissing the charges as “unjustified and unfounded.” The Mizan news agency, affiliated with the judiciary, confirmed the sentencing but did not disclose the names of the defendants. The preliminary verdict was issued by Iran’s Revolutionary Court in Tehran, known for its opaque proceedings where defendants often lack access to evidence. The court accused Kohler and Paris of collaborating with French intelligence and Israel. Each was sentenced to over 30 years in prison, though Iranian legal norms typically allow convicts to serve only the longest single term among multiple charges. The sentences can be appealed to Iran’s Supreme Court within 20 days. This development coincides with Iran’s efforts to secure the release of an Iranian national held in France. The case has drawn international attention, particularly after the pair’s arrest during anti-government protests in 2022. France has described them as a teachers’ union official and her partner on vacation. The situation has been further complicated by recent diplomatic tensions, including a potential prisoner swap deal discussed in September. Iran has a history of detaining dual nationals and Westerners, often using them as leverage in international negotiations.
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French PM backs suspending Macron’s pension reform in bid to save government
In a dramatic move ahead of crucial confidence votes, French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced his support for suspending the contentious 2023 pension reforms. The reforms, which raised the retirement age from 62 to 64, were a cornerstone of President Emmanuel Macron’s second term but sparked widespread protests and political unrest. Lecornu, who was reappointed prime minister just days after resigning, faces a precarious political landscape and relies on the support of Socialist MPs to maintain his government’s stability. Addressing parliament, he proposed suspending the reforms until the 2027 presidential election, a statement met with applause from left-wing parties. Opposition factions, including far-right and far-left groups, have called for confidence votes, known as ‘censure’ motions, scheduled for Thursday. They are demanding early parliamentary elections. The Socialists have conditioned their support on an explicit commitment to suspend Macron’s pension reforms entirely. Laurent Baumel, a Socialist MP, emphasized that Lecornu’s political survival hinges on this promise. The reforms, enacted in March 2023 using a constitutional mechanism to bypass a parliamentary vote, remain a divisive issue, with Lecornu acknowledging their legacy as a ‘wound on democracy.’ He also highlighted the financial implications of suspending the reforms, estimating costs of €400 million in 2026 and €1.8 billion in 2027, which would require compensatory savings. Amid France’s economic challenges, including a budget deficit projected at 5.4% of GDP and public debt nearing 114% of GDP, Lecornu’s ability to navigate these crises will determine his tenure.
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UAE President’s adviser says Trump deserves recognition for halting Gaza war
Dr. Anwar Gargash, a prominent Emirati politician and adviser to the UAE President, has publicly acknowledged US President Donald Trump for his pivotal role in bringing an end to the Gaza war. Speaking at a recent event, Dr. Gargash emphasized that Trump’s unwavering support for the peace plan, which was formalized as the official American initiative, played a crucial role in rallying international consensus during the Sharm El-Sheikh summit in Egypt. ‘From this point, a new phase of discussions and details begins, after the war of extermination has ended and the region has been saved from the repercussions of endless escalation,’ he stated. Earlier, Trump had commended the UAE for its significant contributions to advancing the peace plan. During a high-profile summit in Sharm El-Sheikh, Trump, alongside leaders from Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, signed a comprehensive ceasefire agreement, marking a historic step toward regional stability. In his address, Trump hailed the agreement as a ‘triumph,’ expressing gratitude to the Arab and Islamic nations, particularly the UAE, Egypt, Türkiye, and Qatar, for their mediation efforts. ‘The momentous breakthrough that we’re here to celebrate tonight is more than the end of the war in Gaza. It’s, with God’s help, it will be the new beginning for an entire beautiful Middle East,’ Trump declared. He further emphasized the potential for a prosperous and united region, free from the scourge of terrorism. This development underscores the UAE’s growing influence in international diplomacy and its commitment to fostering peace in the Middle East.
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Japan beats Brazil for the first time in Tokyo comeback
In a landmark moment for Japanese football, the national team achieved their first-ever victory against Brazil in a thrilling 3-2 comeback on Tuesday at Tokyo’s Ajinomoto Stadium. The match, played in front of a sold-out crowd, saw Japan overcome a two-goal deficit to secure a historic win in their 14th encounter with the South American giants. Ayase Ueda’s decisive header in the 71st minute sealed the victory, igniting jubilant celebrations among fans. Brazil, the five-time World Cup champions, initially dominated the first half with goals from Paulo Henrique and Gabriel Martinelli, seemingly on track for their 12th win over Japan. However, Japan’s resilience shone through in the second half. Takumi Minamino capitalized on a defensive error by Fabricio Bruno to score in the 52nd minute, followed by Keito Nakamura’s equalizer, which deflected off Bruno just after the hour mark. Despite Brazil’s strong form following their 5-0 victory in South Korea four days prior, Japan’s determination turned the tide. Both teams have already secured their spots in the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This historic win marks a significant milestone for Japanese football as they continue to build momentum ahead of the global tournament.
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Congo and M23 rebels agree to create body to oversee potential ceasefire
In a significant development toward ending decades of conflict in eastern Congo, the Congolese government and the Rwanda-backed rebel group M23 have agreed to establish an oversight body to monitor a potential permanent ceasefire. The agreement, mediated by Qatar, was signed in Doha on Tuesday, as confirmed by Congolese government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya and M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka on social platform X. The oversight body will include representatives from Congo, M23, and the 12-country International Conference on the Great Lakes Region, with the U.N. peacekeeping mission MONUSCO providing logistical support. The body is tasked with investigating alleged ceasefire violations and is expected to convene within seven days of its formation. This marks a critical step in ongoing peace efforts, which had stalled in recent weeks after both sides missed an August 18 deadline to finalize a comprehensive peace deal. The conflict, fueled by control over Congo’s mineral-rich east, has displaced 7 million people and been described by the U.N. as one of the world’s most complex humanitarian crises. Earlier this year, M23 escalated tensions by seizing two key cities in eastern Congo, further complicating peace negotiations.