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  Oman's national football team, known as the Red Warriors, boosted their hopes of securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a narrow yet decisive 1-0 triumph over Kuwait at Jaber Al Ahmad International Stadium on Tuesday. This victory cements Oman’s fourth-place standing in Group B with 10 points from eight matches, maintaining their edge in the qualification race. Guided by coach Rasheed Jaber, Oman extended their lead over Kuwait to five points, setting the stage for pivotal clashes against Jordan and Palestine in June. South Korea continues to top Group B with 16 points, trailed by Jordan (13) and Iraq (12). The top two teams will qualify directly for the World Cup, while the third and fourth-ranked teams will advance to the next qualifying round. Kuwait started the match aggressively, creating an early scare in the 7th minute when Omani goalkeeper Ibrahim Al Mukhaini misjudged a play, nearly allowing an opening goal. However, Khaled Hajiah’s shot was deflected over the g...

  The Asian qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup delivered another thrilling contest on Thursday as Iraq and Kuwait played to a dramatic 2-2 draw at Basra International Stadium in the seventh round of the third stage. Kuwait started the match with high energy, buoyed by their recent success in the Khaleeji Zain 26 tournament. Their strong defensive organization and strategic counterattacks paid off when veteran forward Yousef Nasser capitalized on an opportunity in the 39th minute, giving Kuwait a 1-0 edge. The second half saw Kuwait continue their tactical approach, eventually reaping further rewards when Nasser struck again in the 70th minute, extending their lead to 2-0. Just when it seemed that Kuwait had secured a crucial victory, Iraq responded with a remarkable late surge. Akam Hashim pulled one back in the 93rd minute, sparking hope among the home supporters. Then, in a breathtaking finish, Ibrahim Bayesh netted the equalizer in the 101st minute, salvaging an important dr...

  In a historic move, Kuwait has enacted substantial legal reforms to enhance its justice system, bringing it in line with international human rights principles and evolving economic conditions. Among the key changes is the amendment of Decree Law No. 8 of 2025, which raises the amount of blood money (diya) from 10,000 to 20,000 Kuwaiti dinars. This revision, the first in over forty years, acknowledges the impact of inflation and economic shifts while ensuring that compensation for victims' families remains fair and effective. Rooted in Islamic legal traditions, the adjustment follows established precedents that allow diya amounts to be updated in response to economic circumstances. In a parallel reform, Kuwait has repealed Article 153 of its Penal Code through Decree-Law No. 9 of 2025. Previously, this law permitted reduced sentences for men convicted of killing female relatives engaged in adultery. Its abolition marks a pivotal moment in Kuwait’s legal history, addressing long-st...

  In a historic move for justice and women’s rights, Kuwait has abolished Article 153 of its Penal Code, a law that previously provided leniency to men who killed female relatives in so-called "honor" killings. This legal reform ensures that such crimes are now classified as murder, closing a long-standing loophole that allowed perpetrators to evade full accountability. Honor killings are acts of violence committed by family members, typically male relatives, who claim that a woman’s behavior has dishonored the family. Under the now-abolished law, men could receive a significantly reduced sentence—often no more than three years—if they killed a wife, daughter, sister, or mother under claims of catching them in an "indecent" situation. With the repeal of Article 153, Kuwait strengthens its commitment to human rights and gender equality. This step brings the nation in line with global efforts to combat gender-based violence, ensuring equal protection under the law and...

  On March 13, 2025, the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED) entered into a $2.1 million grant agreement with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to provide housing rehabilitation for displaced families in Yemen. This initiative will facilitate the reconstruction of homes devastated by conflict, offering crucial materials, equipment, and labor to assist approximately 670 families. Walid Al-Bahar, Acting Director-General of KFAED, underscored Kuwait’s continued dedication to alleviating Yemen’s humanitarian crisis, where more than four million people remain displaced, and 40% of the population lacks adequate housing. Nisreen Rubaian, UNHCR’s Representative to Kuwait, expressed the dire necessity for this aid, as countless displaced families struggle with unsafe living conditions. This grant extends a long-standing partnership between KFAED and UNHCR, with Kuwait contributing nearly $24 million since 2016 across seven prior humanitarian projects. B...

  AI Engineering Services Limited (AIESL) has received a Boeing 777 from Kuwait Airways for scheduled C-check maintenance at its Nagpur-based Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility. The aircraft, which landed on Friday, will undergo a comprehensive 32-day inspection at the MIHAN-SEZ complex. Following the successful maintenance of five aircraft last year, Kuwait Airways’ decision to send another Boeing 777 highlights AIESL’s growing reputation among international airlines. At present, AIESL is servicing seven aircraft under agreements with various clients, reinforcing its position as a trusted partner in global aviation maintenance. Sanjay Dwivedi, General Manager of AIESL’s MRO operations, emphasized the facility’s commitment to efficiency and precision in aircraft servicing. With a dedicated team ensuring timely and high-quality maintenance, AIESL continues to build credibility in the international market. A unique aspect of the Nagpur MRO facility is its highly skilled...

  Kuwait’s crude oil prices continued to decline as the Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) reported a $1.33 drop, bringing the price per barrel to $76.49 on Wednesday. This follows a similar price decrease from the previous day, reflecting growing instability in the energy sector. Oil price reductions extended beyond Kuwait, affecting the global market. Brent crude, widely considered a global price standard, declined by 49 cents to reach $72.53 per barrel. U.S. WTI crude also saw a 31-cent drop, settling at $68.62 per barrel. Market analysts link these declines to increasing investor concerns over a weakening global economy, uncertain energy demand, and ongoing geopolitical conflicts in oil-producing regions. As volatility persists, oil-exporting countries must reassess their financial and economic policies to navigate the unpredictable market landscape.

Kuwait experienced varying levels of rainfall on Wednesday evening due to low-pressure systems and deep atmospheric depression . According to Dharar Al-Ali from the Meteorology Department, Kuwait Airport recorded the highest rainfall at 3.85 mm , while Abdali registered the lowest at just 0.26 mm . A KUNA news report on Thursday highlighted rainfall amounts across the country, with Al-Wafra receiving 3.65 mm, Jal Al-Liyah 3.03 mm, Al-Rabiyah 2.6 mm, and Salmiya 1.17 mm . These varying levels were influenced by the current weather pattern affecting the region. Al-Ali noted that rainfall would continue through Thursday evening before clouds begin to clear. As the system weakens, weather conditions will improve, but fog formation is expected due to lingering moisture and temperature differences. The Meteorology Department has urged residents to exercise caution while driving in foggy conditions . Authorities continue to monitor weather patterns to provide timely updates and ensure...

  The fifth session of the UAE-Kuwait Joint Higher Committee, chaired by Emirati Foreign Minister HH Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed , concluded with the signing of eight Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and Executive Programmes, according to Khaleej Times. In his opening speech, HH Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed welcomed his Kuwaiti counterpart, emphasizing that the committee’s meeting “reflects the deep fraternal ties between the two brotherly nations.” The agreements signed include: 1. MoU on Cooperation in Infrastructure 2. MoU on Cooperation in Standardisation Activities 3. MoU on Cooperation in Telecommunications and Information Technology 4. MoU between the UAE Cybersecurity Council and Kuwait's Cyber Security Centre 5. MoU between EDGE Group Holding (UAE) and Kuwait’s Ministry of Defence on Defence Procurement and Industries 6. Executive Programme for Educational Cooperation (2024-2027) 7. Executive Programme in the Field of Sports (2024-2026) 8. Executive Programme for Cultural Coop...

Dr. Thani al-Zeyoudi, UAE's Minister of State for Foreign Trade, and Ali al-Thaidi, Kuwaiti Consul General in Dubai and Northern Emirates, along with Dr. Firas al-Salem, Chairman of the Kuwaiti Business Council in Dubai and Northern Emirates, recently held talks to enhance UAE-Kuwait economic and trade cooperation. Their discussions centered on strengthening bilateral relations in the fields of economy and trade, and they exchanged views on investment opportunities across various sectors. Kuwaiti Private Sector Strengthening Its Presence in the UAE Following the meeting, Ambassador al-Thaidi emphasized to KUNA the significant opportunities to enhance bilateral trade, noting that the UAE is the largest recipient of Kuwaiti non-oil exports, accounting for 22% of the total. Similarly, Dr. al-Salem highlighted the Kuwaiti private sector's interest in expanding its presence in the UAE, attracted by the country's robust economy, advanced infrastructure, and favorable...

  Kuwait’s Emir, Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Sabah, has passed away at the age of 86 after three years in power. The royal court announced his death on Saturday, and the focus now is on whether a younger generation is brought in by the family. Sheikh Nawaf’s health has been a concern during his term, as he traveled to the United States for medical checkups in 2021. He was admitted to the hospital in late November due to an emergency health problem, but was later reported to be in a stable condition. Born in 1937, Sheikh Nawaf was the fifth son of Sheikh Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah,  Kuwait’s  late ruler from 1921 to 1950. He started his political career at the age of 25 as governor of Hawalli province and remained in the position until 1978. Sheikh Nawaf served as the interior and defense minister of the oil-rich Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) country and was named crown prince in 2006. He took over as Emir when his half-brother Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah died in 2020 at the...

  The US State Department's regional spokesperson, Samuel Warburg, emphasized the significant advancements in bilateral relations while highlighting Kuwait's crucial position as a strategic ally in a recent diplomatic statement. With this recognition, Kuwait's position as an important ally of the United States is cemented, as it is acknowledged for its positive contributions and successful cooperation in promoting peace and stability in the region. With Warburg's acknowledgement of Kuwait as an essential friend, the two countries' diplomatic and strategic ties have become stronger. Mutual respect and common goals characterize this developing partnership, underscoring a dedication to cooperative endeavors that go beyond political cooperation. The United States recognizes Kuwait's efforts to advance stability and peace and commends the Gulf country for its positive role in regional affairs. Kuwait's diplomatic endeavors have been well-received, establishing th...

  Kuwait has deported about 12,000 foreigners in three months, beginning in August, in an effort to enforce its residence regulations. The General section of Correctional Facilities' deportation section is spearheading this operation, which demonstrates the nation's will to crack down on immigration infractions by its expatriate populace. Roughly 4,300 people were kicked out in October alone for a variety of infractions, such as breaking labour laws, residential regulations, and public morality. Security campaigns, which actively pursue anyone breaking residency restrictions, involve coordinated patrols with the Public Security, Rescue, and Traffic sectors. This is done to guarantee that these efforts are successful. Extensive security operations have been initiated nationally by the General Department of Residency Affairs Investigation to target absconders and sought persons, as well as those who violate residency restrictions. Authorities stress that individuals who are dep...