News 08:00

BULLETIN 1 March 8 am

Good morning. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Khamenei was killed in a strike
# South Africans are advised to limit travel to the Gulf States amid escalating tension in the region
# And Rugby, the Lions outplay the Stormers, while the Bulls crush the Sharks in United Rugby Championship matches

# Iran’s state media confirmed that the country’s supreme leader Ayatollah Khamenei was killed in the combined US and Israeli air strikes in Iran. An anchor on Iranian state media announced Khamenei’s death, reading out a statement in Farsi. In a video on Truth Social, American president Donal Trump said the action was taken after Iran rejected every opportunity to renounce their nuclear ambitions. The strikes began in daylight yesterday morning as millions went to work or school. Iran retaliated with strikes on several US military bases in the Middle East.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed deep concern over the escalating tensions in the Middle East, and warned of serious threats to regional and global peace. He urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint and act in line with international law and the UN Charter. Ramaphosa spokesperson Vincent Magwenya emphasised that lasting peace can only be achieved through dialogue and negotiation:

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation has meanwhile urged South Africans to limit non-essential travel to Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Bahrain. Airspace closures have disrupted flights to and from Middle East hubs and heightened safety concerns. Citizens are advised to stay alert, have travel documents ready, and monitor official updates before departure.

# Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee will soon write to private investigator Paul O’Sullivan, requesting him to return and complete his testimony. National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza says she awaits a report on the circumstances surrounding his walkout. O’Sullivan left proceedings early, citing a urgency to catch a flight. Committee chairperson Soviet Lekganyane says all reasonable steps, including formal engagement, will be taken before considering a subpoena. Further discussions are expected tomorrow:

And we end with sport:

# Rugby: The Stormers were outplayed by a better Lions outfit in Round 12 of the United Rugby Championship yesterday with the homeside clinching a 24-10 victory at Ellis Park. This is the Stormers third consecutive loss, and with no bonus points earned, they move down from third to fourth position on the points log. This result allowed the Lions to claim the South African Shield title. And at Loftus Versfeld the Bulls crushed the Sharks for a bonus point victory of 41-12, moving the team into the top eight.

# Soccer: Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Cedric Kaze admitted his side was nowhere near arch-rivals Orlando Pirates after a 3-0 defeat in the Soweto Derby. Pirates struck early through Tshepang Moremi and dominated the first half 2-0. Chiefs struggled after halftime, conceding a third goal. The loss leaves Amakhosi eleven-points behind league leaders Pirates. Kaze urged players to regroup, focus on training, and recover as the title race intensifies with 13 games remaining.

Stay tuned for more news………….