Regional tensions, high-stakes defence deals, and new innovation-led collaborations defined the Middle East and North Africa landscape on Wednesday. Here’s your quick briefing:
1. Egypt Urges Pressure on Israel Over Gaza Blockade
Cairo called for increased international pressure on Israel to lift its blockade on Gaza, as hundreds of activists approach the Egyptian border in a Gaza-bound convoy. The foreign ministry clarified that any delegations intending to visit border areas must seek prior approval, underlining its regulatory protocols.
2. Turkey Seals $10 Billion Fighter Jet Deal with Indonesia
In a major boost to its defence export portfolio, Turkey announced a landmark agreement to supply 48 domestically produced KAAN fifth-generation fighter jets to Indonesia. President Erdogan confirmed the deal includes technology transfer and joint production, reinforcing Ankara’s ambition to lead in the global defence market.
3. Iran Threatens US Bases Amid Nuclear Standoff
Iran’s Defence Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh issued a stern warning that US military bases across the Middle East would be within Iran’s crosshairs if nuclear talks fail. This comes amid renewed tensions over uranium enrichment and fears of regional escalation.
4. Tragedy in Iran: Fire at Petrochemical Plant Kills Three
A fire at a petrochemical complex in southern Iran claimed at least three lives, state media reported. Investigations into the cause are ongoing.
5. Kuwait Imposes New Exit Rules on Foreign Workers
Kuwait announced that expatriates working in the private sector will now require employer consent to leave the country. The move has raised concerns over increased restrictions on migrant worker rights in the Gulf.
6. UAE Receives G7 Summit Invitation
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed has been officially invited to the upcoming G7 Summit by Canadian PM Mark Carney. The invitation acknowledges the UAE’s role in global economic dialogue, particularly in AI, energy security, and climate cooperation.
7. Abu Dhabi Announces Major Media Investment
The Abu Dhabi Creative Media Authority signed a AED55 million partnership with NG9 Holding to co-produce two films and a TV series for global distribution. The deal emphasizes the UAE’s growing ambition to become a regional media and creative powerhouse.
8. New Business Hub in KEZAD
KEZAD Group unveiled plans for a new Business District along Abu Dhabi’s key E11 corridor. The development will include office towers, sports facilities, and F&B outlets, aiming to attract high-growth companies to the region.
9. Saudi Arabia Deploys AI for Hajj Operations
The Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) successfully managed pilgrim operations for the Hajj season through the Smart Makkah Operations Center, leveraging real-time AI analytics across ports and crossings to ensure efficient crowd control.
10. AI Enhances Crowd Management at Grand Mosque
In Makkah, AI-powered sensor and camera systems are now fully operational at the Grand Mosque gates, offering real-time crowd monitoring to improve safety and mobility during peak pilgrim hours.
11. Qatar, IAEA Collaborate on Marine Protection
On the sidelines of the UN Ocean Conference in Monaco, Qatar’s environment minister met with IAEA’s marine labs chief to explore joint efforts in monitoring environmental changes using nuclear technology.
