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  Saudi Arabia's commitment to sustainability takes a giant leap forward as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud gives the green light to an array of transformative goals, aiming to amplify afforestation and eco-tourism within the Kingdom. The strategic targets, endorsed during a Council of Royal Reserves meeting, mark a significant stride towards sustainable growth. This initiative is projected to generate numerous employment opportunities for local communities, alongside solidifying Saudi Arabia's stature as a premier global eco-tourism destination. The ambitious plans align seamlessly with the Saudi Green Initiative, which ambitiously seeks to plant a staggering 10 billion trees over the upcoming decades. Bearing the responsibility of being a prominent energy producer, Saudi Arabia is committed to combating climate change. The Saudi Green Initiative is a testament to this commitment, prto omoting clean energy adoption and environmental preservation. With a

According to Syrian opposition activists, an airstrike on Thursday damaged a drug production factory in southern Syria close to the Jordanian border. Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries. Syrian opposition activists stated that the Jordanian air force was believed to have been responsible for the attack. Over the previous few weeks, numerous drones carrying drugs were shot down after entering Jordan from Syria, according to Syria's official media. The Captagon industry, Syria's most valuable export industry, has been a huge concern for Jordan, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and other Arab states.  According to reports, hundreds of millions of pills have been smuggled through the Syrian border in recent years. Daraa-based opposition activist Ahmad al-Masalmeh said that smugglers usually prepare and package illegal drugs before smuggling them across the southern border into Jordan, a country in the Middle East.  The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a United Kingdom-ba

  Bahrain's authorities are grappling with a widespread hunger strike that has led to significant unrest both within the country and beyond its borders. As a response to this extensive and concerning situation, Bahraini officials have unveiled plans to expand prisoners' rights, encompassing longer visiting hours and outdoor privileges. The hunger strike, touted as the most substantial in Bahrain's history, began at Jau prison in August and has ignited uncommon street demonstrations along with international attention. While Bahrain's interior ministry aims to address the issue by extending visitation and outdoor durations, the Bahrain Institute for Rights and Democracy (BIRD) asserts that this approach has yet to quell the hunger strike involving approximately 800 participants. The strike is particularly poignant due to its inclusion of dissidents who were incarcerated during the 2011 Shiite-led uprisings. Activists and human rights organizations view the authorities'

  The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has marked a significant trade accomplishment by propelling its non-oil foreign trade to unparalleled heights. With a trade volume of Dh1.24 trillion ($337.6 billion) in the first half of 2023, this achievement stands out as it surpasses the entirety of the UAE's non-oil exports from just five years ago. Notably, the UAE's non-oil exports with its top 10 trading partners rose by 22% in the first half of this year. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, a prominent UAE leader, shared this remarkable news, expressing optimism that the non-oil foreign trade could exceed Dh2.5 trillion by year-end and setting an ambitious target of Dh4 trillion in trade by 2031. The UAE has been actively cultivating international partnerships, fostering ties with countries like India, Israel, Turkey, and Indonesia, alongside receiving an invitation to join the BRICS group, which comprises influential nations like Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. READ MORE:  UAE’

  In a recent assessment by JLL, escalating home prices in Saudi Arabia are yielding a concerning decline in property transactions across the nation. The Q2 report reveals that residential property sale prices have surged, particularly in Riyadh with a notable 7% gain, and Jeddah showing a commendable 5% increase. However, the ascending prices coupled with higher interest rates are beginning to dissuade potential buyers from entering the market. Furthermore, the study highlights shifts in market demand within Riyadh and Jeddah's major real estate sectors. The report underscores a 2% drop in the total number of sale transactions for villas and apartments in Riyadh and a substantial 17% decrease in Jeddah over the first five months of 2023. This decline also manifests in the total value of property deals, with Riyadh experiencing a 4% decrease and Jeddah witnessing a significant 19% dip compared to the same period the previous year. Despite the dwindling transaction numbers, a bright

  An elite French commando unit member was killed in Iraq on Monday while "supporting an Iraqi unit in an anti-terrorist operation," according to a statement from the office of French President Emmanuel Macron. Sergeant Nicolas Mazier, an air force paratrooper, died while carrying out his mission. The Elysee Palace, the official residence of the President of the French Republic, said that the French soldier fell in combat while carrying out his mission. French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his respect to the soldier for his “sacrifice.” Reportedly, other soldiers from the Iraqi unit in an anti-terrorist operation were also wounded. Iraqi and French troops were assaulted by militants from the Daesh group, or ISIS, on Monday in the nearby Salah Al-Din province, according to an Iraqi security source in northern Kirkuk. According to the source, some French troops as well as three members of Iraq’s anti-terrorist forces were injured in a battle of “more than five hours.” Acc

  Oman's ambitious Vision 2040 is making remarkable strides under the guidance of the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology, with over 240 projects spanning 19 comprehensive programs. Dr. Saif bin Said Al Sinani, Director General of Planning at the ministry, underscores the nation's dedication to economic evolution and technological advancement through these endeavors. This comprehensive initiative encompasses 35 investment projects, fostering economic diversification, financial sustainability, and global collaboration. The goal is to attract investments and enhance revenue streams in the transport, logistics, communications, and information technology sectors. Notably, partnerships with private entities are reshaping infrastructure, and ongoing enhancements at key ports aim to optimize services. Moreover, Oman's commitment extends to legal advancements, with over 30 draft laws and legislations in progress. These reforms, covering aspects like ad

The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) has taken a proactive step towards bolstering the UAE's ability to respond to potential infectious disease outbreaks. In a recent tabletop exercise, more than 20 crucial entities participated to enhance the nation's defense against epidemics. Among the participants were significant organizations including the Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Health and Prevention, and the General Civil Aviation Authority. The exercise was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of strategies employed by each entity, leveraging their specific capabilities. The focal point was a collaborative approach, drawing insights from global responses to various epidemics and pandemics. In-depth discussions were held to improve communication channels, ensuring swift and accurate information dissemination among concerned authorities. Moreover, the exercise delved into media procedures, explorin

In response to alleged United States pressure on the Islamic Republic of Iran to halt its drone sales to Russia, Moscow vowed on Saturday to preserve its military cooperation with Tehran. Sergei Alexeyevich Ryabkov, a Russian politician who is currently serving as the Deputy Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation, said, “There are no changes, and cooperation with Iran will continue.” He reportedly said in a report carried by state news agency RIA Novosti, “We are independent states and do not succumb to the dictates of the United States and its satellites.” Days earlier, the commander of Iran's ground forces had stated during a visit to Russia that military cooperation between the two nations was growing on a daily basis. The US Biden administration reportedly made the proposal as part of larger negotiations with the Islamic Republic of Iran that also included a recent prisoner exchange deal and were intended to address the Iranian nuclear program, according to the British Busi

  Saudi Arabia's consideration of a Chinese bid to construct a nuclear power plant is causing ripples in global diplomacy. While the China National Nuclear Corp (CNNC) has submitted the bid, official responses from China, Saudi Arabia, and CNNC are still pending. The move holds implications for existing U.S. plans in the region, particularly given Saudi Arabia's prior efforts to collaborate with the U.S. on a civilian nuclear program linked to potential normalization with Israel. Saudi Arabia's calculated approach to the Chinese bid reflects its diplomatic strategy. While the nation expresses interest in South Korean involvement in the project, it appears hesitant to accept the U.S.'s traditional non-proliferation requirements. This showcases Saudi Arabia's determination and its willingness to pivot toward the Chinese option should negotiations with the U.S. not yield the desired outcomes. READ MORE:  Saudi Considers Chinese Bid For Nuclear Power Plant, May Derail U

  A leader of ISIS, or Daesh, who allegedly planned three deadly attacks in Tripoli, the capital and largest city of Libya, in 2018, has been captured by the country. Abdelhamid Dbeibah, the prime minister of Libya under the Government of National Unity in Tripoli, reportedly said during a live television broadcast, “Our forces apprehended on Tuesday a leader of the terrorist organization Daesh, involved in the planning and command of terrorist acts that targeted the institutions of our country and their fallen officials.” Abdelhamid Dbeibah, the Interim Prime Minister of Libya, did not reveal the name or the nationality of the terrorist. He was reportedly arrested in a joint military operation. Dbeibah, the head of the United Nations-supported Libyan government, said that his government would “combat terrorism in all its forms,” to “prosecute anyone involved” in terrorist acts. In May 2018, 14 people were killed in a suicide attack at the Libyan High Electoral Commission in Tripoli. T

  The President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Mohammed bin Zayed, recently conveyed his appreciation for the UAE's inclusion as a member of BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa). Highlighting the importance of the group, President bin Zayed reiterated the UAE's commitment to collaborative efforts aimed at fostering worldwide prosperity and dignity. His message, shared on X (formerly Twitter), praised the leadership vision of BRICS and underlined the significance of this new alliance. The UAE firmly expressed its dedication to working with fellow BRICS nations to advance the collective well-being of nations and people around the globe. The expansion of BRICS membership is a notable development. Alongside the existing members, Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE have joined the coalition. This move reflects a strategic effort to strengthen BRICS as a counterbalance to Western influence. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi applauded th

  In a statement to the International Court or World Court on the legitimacy of Israel's occupation of the Palestinian lands, the United Kingdom has been accused of "seeking to block the International Court of Justice (ICJ) from addressing important international humanitarian law matters." As part of the ICJ's fact-finding stage prior to an anticipated advisory judgment from the court on the legal repercussions of the "occupation" of Palestinian land, the UK in July submitted a 43-page legal opinion about the matter. The UK reportedly opposed the hearing of the case in the ICJ. Palestinian diplomats reportedly condemned the UK’s statement. They said that the situation was rapidly deteriorating. However, Israel and the Palestinians view the legal action by the United Kingdom as crucial. Despite the fact that numerous United Nations agencies have determined that some aspects of the occupation are unconstitutional, there has yet to be a ruling on whether the oc

  **Title: Oman's Strategic Step: Setting Up EWS to Predict Financial and Economic Crises** Oman is embarking on a visionary endeavor in partnership with the Korea Development Institute (KDI) to establish an Early Warning System (EWS) aimed at predicting and preparing for financial and economic crises. The EWS project, a collaboration between Oman's Tawazun program and KDI, holds immense promise in fortifying the country's financial resilience. The proactive measures to be undertaken through this system are expected to mitigate the adverse effects of potential crises on Oman's financial landscape. The recently introduced Early Warning System (EWS) is a critical stride towards securing Oman's economic stability. Driven by Oman's Tawazun program, which focuses on achieving fiscal balance amid oil price fluctuations, and bolstered by the expertise of KDI, the EWS aims to evaluate risks and uncertainties. By assessing key indicators such as debt levels, inflation ra

  Iran sentenced seven men and a woman to prison, according to state media, after their convictions for allegedly helping two men who had already been hanged for killing a paramilitary volunteer during the nationwide demonstrations in 2022.  The sentences were handed down just days before the anniversary of Mahsa Amini's killing on September 16. Reportedly, police have begun collecting up activists and other people in an apparent effort to quell any criticism ahead of the one-year anniversary. According to the Mizan news agency, the Revolutionary Court in the city of Karaj handed down the prison sentence to seven men and one woman. The agency reported that the country's Supreme Court upheld the penalties imposed after the defendants' attorneys filed an appeal. According to rights groups and activists, the Revolutionary Court of Iran holds legal proceedings behind closed doors. The court has faced intense criticism from human rights groups, human rights activists and other c

  The Islamic Republic of Iran has unveiled an advanced drone, named "Mohajer-10," with an enhanced flight range and duration, as reported by Iranian state media. On Tuesday, the authorities in Iran unveiled the new homemade drone with an operational range of 2,000 km and a greater payload that can reach 300 kg. The new drone can fly for up to 24 hours and has double the capacity of the "Mohajer-6" drone. Mohajer-10 UAV fuel capacity is 450 liters. The new drones are capable of carrying ammunition and bombs and are equipped with intelligence systems. The new drone was unveiled in the presence of Ebrahim Raisi, the President of Iran. Other Iranian officials were also present during the unveiling ceremony.  In recent years, Iranian military experts have made a broad range of indigenous equipment and drones. Earlier, Iran also manufactured Mohajer-6, a mid-range combat drone with intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. The drones have the cap

Saudi border guards have been accused of killing hundreds of migrants in a new report by Human Rights Watch (HRW), an international non-governmental organization responsible for defending the rights of people.  Human Rights Watch conducted a detailed investigation on the matter. The rights groups interviewed dozens of Ethiopians who tried to cross into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from Yemen. During the interview, they revealed that they were attacked by Saudi border guards along the Yemeni border. According to HRW, Saudi border guards killed hundreds of Ethiopians using small arms and explosive weapons on Yemen's northern border with Saudi Arabia. The HRW report, titled They Fired On Us Like Rain, claimed that Saudi police and soldiers targeted migrants with weapons. The rights advocates called it a crime against humanity. According to the BBC, Ethiopians, including women and children, came under fire as they tried to sneak across the border. Migrants told the BBC that significant

  Wang Yi, the Foreign Minister of the People's Republic of China, has said that the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continue to take steps to improve relations, after the China-brokered deal signed in March. The Chinese foreign minister said on Monday that the approach by Iran and Saudi Arabia leads to the formation of a "wave of reconciliation" in the Middle East region. Wang Yi further said in a statement on Monday that China "appreciates the correct decision made by the Iranian side." He also reiterated China's support to Middle East countries. The Chinese foreign minister also lauded Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah bin Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, for holding successful talks with the Iranian officials after the Saudi embassy in Tehran had officially reopened.  Recently, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran, v

 The recent, cryptic military movements of the United States in Iraq and Syria have ignited international intrigue, spawning a flurry of speculations about their intended targets and objectives. These covert operations are casting a spotlight on the intricate web of modern geopolitical dynamics and the immense challenges entailed in upholding regional stability amidst an ever-evolving security landscape. The covert nature of these US military operations underscores the delicate balance between the need for operational secrecy and the necessity of conveying clear objectives to allies, partners, and the broader global community. These secretive endeavors have sparked multifaceted conjecture, ranging from counterterrorism missions to the preservation of regional stability. In an era characterized by asymmetric threats, the adaptability of US military strategy allows for a spectrum of potential aims, each carrying its own implications for both regional and global security. This scenario un

Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are emerging as the vanguards of the eco-tourism movement in the Middle East. Their commitment to promoting sustainable travel practices emphasizes environmental conservation and cultural preservation, echoing global trends towards responsible tourism. This dynamic shift in their tourism strategies is not just about attracting eco-conscious travelers but is deeply rooted in their recognition of the economic, environmental, and cultural benefits that responsible tourism brings. Both Saudi Arabia and the UAE are going above and beyond in their eco-tourism efforts. Their goal is not just to create eco-friendly hotels but to foster immersive experiences that connect tourists with nature and culture in respectful ways. By collaborating on these initiatives, they set an inspiring example for neighboring countries, encouraging the entire region to embrace sustainable tourism practices. This emphasis on sustainability aligns with global trends as

  Amidst a backdrop of escalating political tensions and concerns over anti-democratic judicial reforms, Israel finds itself on the cusp of passing a contentious new media law that experts fear could significantly compromise its "media independence and freedom of the press." This alarming development has spurred prominent Israeli television networks into action. In a remarkable display of unity, Israel's leading broadcasters, Keshet 12, Reshet 13, and Kan, have rallied against the impending bill, forming a collective front to counter its potential repercussions. The bill, championed by Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi, stands against a backdrop of ongoing public resistance to the government's controversial judicial reforms. READ MORE:  Israeli media at risk from government’s proposed reforms The proposed media reforms, viewed by many as part of a broader anti-democratic agenda, have ignited apprehension within the Israeli TV landscape. This legislation seeks to es

The collaboration between the UAE and Ethiopia marks a crucial step towards addressing climate challenges and fostering sustainability on both regional and global scales. As highlighted in ThePrint report, these nations have recognized the urgency of combating climate change, a pressing concern in today's world. This partnership extends its reach across various sectors, embracing renewable energy, water conservation, agriculture, and technology. The UAE and Ethiopia are pooling their strengths and resources to innovate solutions that effectively tackle environmental issues while nurturing sustainable growth. This initiative resonates deeply, particularly with Ethiopia's vulnerability to climate change-induced impacts like droughts and changing weather patterns, which can significantly affect its agrarian economy. Beyond bilateral efforts, this collaboration demonstrates a larger principle of South-South cooperation. The UAE's engagement reflects its leadership in supporting

The concept of a cage match between Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg might have ignited curiosity initially, but it's become apparent that the time has come for this juvenile notion to be shelved indefinitely. In fact, the best moment to have dismissed the idea was when it was first proposed, and the second-best time is now. Fortunately, Mark Zuckerberg, the visionary behind Meta, has opted to transcend the pettiness associated with this idea. By rejecting Elon Musk's recent offer and asserting that it's time to move forward, Zuckerberg provides an opportunity for both Musk and his fervent supporters to exit the whirlwind of frenzied anticipation. Zuckerberg addressed the matter on Threads, a platform he recently introduced, expressing a sentiment that many can resonate with: "I think we can all agree Elon isn't serious and it's time to move on." As the drama surrounding the hypothetical cage match continues, it's becoming increasingly evident that the en

  In the midst of the United Nations' relentless efforts to bring about a sustainable peace process, Yemen remains ensnared in a complex web of political and humanitarian turmoil. Hans Grundberg, the UN special envoy for Yemen, has raised the alarm regarding the impeded progress due to the exchange of threats between the Yemeni government and the Houthi rebels. The journey towards peace is hindered by these persistent tensions, with both sides veering away from the constructive path required for meaningful resolution. While the sporadic clashes between the Houthis and the government have not escalated into full-scale hostilities, the threat of returning to all-out war looms ominously. Grundberg underscores the importance of translating the general willingness for solutions into concrete actions, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive agreement that kickstarts an inclusive Yemeni political process. He urges both parties to shun escalatory language and rely on established communica

The curtains are set to rise on a mesmerizing new chapter as the NYU Abu Dhabi Arts Centre unveils its eagerly awaited ninth season. Spanning from August 2023 to May 2024, this season promises to be a tapestry of creativity, featuring a captivating blend of concerts, dance performances, and film screenings. A standout feature of the lineup is the renowned Barzakh Festival, a two-day musical extravaganza that has carved a niche as a pulsating hub for world music. As anticipation swells, the Arts Centre holds the spotlight, ready to unravel a series of awe-inspiring moments and artistic discoveries. A symphony of the senses awaits, with the Arts Centre meticulously curating a journey through diverse artistic realms. The season boasts an array of premieres, both regional and international, poised to enthral audiences. Among the luminaries gracing the stage is the Asian Dub Foundation, poised to captivate with their musical prowess, and the soul-stirring Brazilian singer Bebel Gilberto, wh

  Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran, visited Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, on Thursday. This was his first official visit to Saudi Arabia following a historic deal brokered by People’s Republic of China in March, according to state media. The IRIB state broadcaster reported that the one-day visit by the Iranian minister "is focusing on bilateral ties, regional, and international issues." The Iranian minister "will leave Tehran for Riyadh in a few hours," IRIB said on Thursday. The ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran severed in 2016 when Saudi diplomatic missions in the Islamic Republic of Iran were attacked during demonstrations. Iran slammed Saudi Arabia because Riyadh executed Shiite cleric Nimr al-Nimr, which led to the severing of ties between Shiite-majority Saudi Arabia and Sunni-majority Saudi Arabia. According to reports, the longtime foes agreed to resume diplomatic relations and reopen their res

  Nestled just an hour's drive away from Dubai's towering skyscrapers, the village of Al-Ghuraifa has emerged as an unexpected tourist attraction in a nation that boasts a myriad of such destinations. Constructed in the 1970s to house semi-nomadic Bedouin communities, Al-Ghuraifa offers a glimpse into the UAE's rapid urbanization, yet shrouded in mystery is the reason behind its abandonment a mere two decades after its inception. The village, situated near the town of Al-Madam in the Sharjah emirate, has transitioned from obscurity to allure. In a country renowned for its lavish attractions, Al-Ghuraifa provides a unique escape. Amidst the rolling dunes, visitors wander through the remnants of what was once a thriving community. The village whispers tales of its past, sparking intrigue and curiosity. READ MORE:  An abandoned desert village an hour from Dubai becomes another tourist attraction in a country filled with them The village's backstory continues to unravel, ra

Eli Cohen, the Israeli Minister of Foreign Affairs, declared on Wednesday that Paraguay's new president, Santiago Pena, will reopen the country's embassy in Jerusalem, the capital of Israel.  Israel will also reopen its embassy in Asunción, the capital city of Paraguay, apparently putting an end to a rupture between the two countries that began five years ago. If the new Paraguay leader follows through, Paraguay will be the fifth country to open an embassy in the Israeli capital, joining Kosovo, Honduras, Guatemala, and the United States. Israel sees these actions as reinforcing its claim to the Jerusalem city as its capital, despite the fact that most foreign embassies are located in or near Tel Aviv, a city on Israel’s Mediterranean coast. The Israeli foreign minister announced this news after a brief meeting with Pena following his inauguration ceremony on Tuesday. Cohen said that he invited Pena to visit Israel within a year to dedicate the new mission and open the embassy.

In the midst of America's prosperity, the persistent issue of child poverty remains a stark reality that demands immediate and comprehensive action. Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib's groundbreaking introduction of the 'End Child Poverty Act' is poised to reshape the trajectory for countless young lives. The Act shines a powerful spotlight on the heart-wrenching concern of child poverty, emphasizing the critical need for reform and support. Tlaib's proposed framework offers a ray of hope, aiming to alleviate the suffering faced by countless families while offering a beacon of optimism for the future. The existing landscape relies on basic cash assistance programs like the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Child Tax Credit, and the Credit for Other Dependents, but the 'End Child Poverty Act' aspires to transcend this patchwork approach. A pivotal aspect of the proposal is the universal monthly child allowance, designed to bridge the gap between poverty lines and offer

Jordan's King Abdullah II visited Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi on Monday. The two leaders also held a meeting.  According to Ahmed Fahmy, a spokesman for the Egyptian presidency, the Egyptian president and the monarch talked about a variety of topics and expressed their appreciation for the exemplary relationship between the two countries. During the meeting, they also shared their hopes for improving relations in ways that benefit their nations and people. They also called for a tripartite cooperation mechanism with Iraq, particularly at the economic and commercial levels, and discussed a number of regional and international issues of mutual concern. The two leaders also discussed Palestinian developments and agreed to step up efforts by their respective countries to provide full support to people in Palestine and "work to revive the peace process" in order to achieve a comprehensive solution to the Palestinian issue. King Abdullah also congratulated Egypt and

  The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has become a second home to a staggering 3.5 million Indian citizens, marking a significant milestone in the two countries' dynamic relationship. V Muraleedharan, the Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs of India, shared this remarkable news during a session of the Lok Sabha, highlighting the increasing preference of Indians for UAE as a hub for employment opportunities. This population surge not only underscores the allure of the UAE but also signifies the strong ties between the nations. The UAE's thriving economy and multicultural environment have magnetized an influx of Indian talent, leading to the establishment of Overseas Indian Help Centers in Dubai, serving as a testament to the support and resources extended to the Indian community. Moreover, it's not just the UAE; Indians have found opportunities and settled in other Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Oman. The Indian government's proactive approach is eviden

As the power dynamics shift with the Supreme Court's reduced influence over the government led by Benjamin Netanyahu, concerns arise over the expansion of Israeli settlements, particularly in the West Bank. The implications extend even to the possibility of annexing the occupied territory. The absence of robust checks and balances enables the Israeli government to maneuver unchecked, prompting apprehensions about the Palestinian population's rights being disregarded. Yet, the landscape is not devoid of dissenting voices. Israeli liberals perceive the judicial reform as a direct threat to the nation's democratic fabric. Sami Abu Shehadeh, leader of the National Democratic Assembly and a Palestinian citizen of Israel, articulates the complexity of the situation. He points to a long process of religious national extremists gaining control over crucial decision-making processes and ministries, leading to a transformation in political discourse. A rift between old elites seeking

   In a critical operation, the United Nations has successfully completed the transfer of one million barrels of oil from the FSO Safer, a dilapidated supertanker stranded off the coast of Yemen. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that this achievement prevented what could have been a monumental humanitarian and environmental catastrophe. The FSO Safer, originally a supertanker built in 1976 and later repurposed as a floating oil container, had fallen into disrepair due to the ongoing civil war that began in 2015. The UN had repeatedly raised concerns about the immediate threat posed by the decaying vessel, which had the potential to explode, break apart, or leak, leading to catastrophic consequences. The successful oil transfer, initiated by a UN salvage team on July 25 after two years of fundraising efforts, marks a significant milestone in averting disaster. While a substantial portion of the 1.14 million barrels of oil has been ex