It’s the 3rd of March and this is News Bite, your fast, reliable update on South Africa and the world, with Marcelle Gordon.
In today’s episode, the Iran war escalation deepens as Tehran threatens to torch ships in the Strait of Hormuz, while US President Donald Trump warns the “hardest hits” are still coming.
Drones strike the US embassy in Riyadh, Israel intensifies operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon, and Iran’s ambassador to the UN accuses the US and Israel of targeting civilians as Tehran insists its response is defensive.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledges Israeli action triggered the US strikes, with US officials framing the attacks as protection of American lives, while the legality of preemptive action is questioned under international law.
Dubai Airports confirms a limited resumption of operations, but travellers are told not to arrive unless contacted by their airline.
Back home, eNCA has sight of a photo showing suspended EMPD Deputy Chief Julius Mkhwanazi with Deon Singh and Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala, allegedly tied to a 2022 State of the City Address security meeting.
In the Western Cape, gang violence remains a national flashpoint as the province releases third quarter crime stats, while in KZN, government says the Lower uMkhomazi Water Project is edging closer to completion, including the Ngwadini Dam and a major treatment plant.
On the West Coast, Red Tide on the West Coast is hitting livelihoods as marine life dies off and the rock lobster season outlook worsens.
In other news we’re keeping an eye on
· The 20c petrol price hike kicks in on Wednesday, energy prices soar amid conflict fallout.
· Families of the 2024 George building collapse victims call for land auction money to be donated, and Joburg’s Ormonde collapse death toll rises to nine.
SPORTS
· The Proteas head into a T20 World Cup semi-final against New Zealand with coach Shukri Conrad leaning into the pressure, while Formula One’s calendar faces uncertainty as the FIA weighs “safety and wellbeing” amid Middle East conflict.
That is your News Bite for 03 March 2026.
For updates on these stories and more, visit enca.com or watch us on DStv Channel 403