Blinken tells Abbas US backs ‘tangible steps’ for Palestinian state
Blinken "underscored the United States' position that all Palestinian tax revenues collected by Israel should be consistently conveyed to the Palestinian Authority in accordance with prior agreements," Miller said. Israel has for years withheld part of the funds, over issues including payments to Palestinian prisoners and more recently the Gaza...Jordan king to host Sisi, Abbas for Gaza talks: palace
King Abdullah, in a meeting Sunday with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, called on the United States to press Israel for an "immediate ceasefire" and to put an end to the humanitarian crisis brought by the Gaza war. King Abdullah had also warned Blinken against "the catastrophic repercussions of...GCC telecom firms turn to Europe, Asia for expansion
Wielding piles of cash and cutting-edge technology, many Arab telecom firms are scouting overseas markets to expand business beyond home territory.UAE startups eye Saudi Arabia for growth, expansion
With both nations offering substantial markets and supportive environment for innovation, startups are exploring new opportunities in the Kingdom.Rising threat of lookalike domains poses new challenge
"Detecting these attacks and avoiding falling victim to them is vital, but the ability to take down lookalike domains is equally important. The increasing sophistication and prevalence of lookalike domain attacks necessitate specialized solutions like DNS security as an essential tool for all organizations," he adds.Israel faces Gaza ‘genocide’ case at UN top court
South Africa wants the ICJ to impose "provisional measures", or emergency actions, while the broader case is being considered -- which would probably take years. "The circumstances could not be more urgent," argues Pretoria, describing an "exceptionally brutal military campaign by Israel in Gaza, which is extensive and ongoing".Etihad Airways spreading wings to embrace new skies
"Our goal is to usher in a new era of sustainable growth, anchored by a solid strategic plan," he adds, announcing that Etihad Airways will introduce new routes in 2024. These include Boston, marking the airline's fourth destination in the United States, with four weekly flights beginning March 31.Qatar rises as a premier sports tourism destination
“In addition to hosting a variety of sports events, especially the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, Qatar has shown the world its hospitality and exceptional organization. This is complemented by luxurious tourist facilities and the picturesque landscapes that characterize the destination," he adds.‘Dubai reinforces global leadership in healthcare’
“Biomedical and health informatics professionals attending MedInfo 2027 will enjoy a world-class event in a thriving global city within close proximity to key markets. We will continue to support the Emirates Health Informatics Society in planning for this event, maximizing attendance, and ensuring it makes a strong impact,” he adds.‘Major shifts are reshaping the Arab world’s future’
"Most of the global trends are positive if analyzed in terms of economic value. Countries have developed and lifted millions out of poverty. Artificial Intelligence is doubling productivity, in addition to medical breakthroughs, social, economic, and political stability that many countries are enjoying,” adds Al Gergawi.‘Promoting reading key to a knowledge-based society’
“By strengthening the habit of reading among people, we aim to contribute to comprehensive development and sustainable education, and to encourage creative and critical thinking. This contributes to creating an intelligent and cultured society that plays an effective role in shaping the future,” he adds.France condemns Israeli minister’s Gaza emigration remarks
Ben-Gvir on Monday called for promoting "a solution to encourage the emigration of Gaza's residents" and the re-establishment of Israeli settlements in the Gaza Strip. His comments came the day after Smotrich also called for the return of settlers to Gaza, adding that Israel should "encourage" the territory's approximately 2.4 million Palestinians to...Gaza war tensions spike after deadly Iran blasts, Lebanon killing
At least 103 people were killed and another 140 injured when two blasts 10 minutes apart struck Iranian mourners commemorating slain Revolutionary Guards general Qasem Soleimani on the fourth anniversary of his killing, Iran's state media reported. Iran's Tasnim news agency, quoting what it called informed sources, said "two bags...‘AD Ports redefines future of maritime and logistics’
"Our achievements demonstrate that traditional approaches no longer suffice in the rapidly evolving global market. We have embraced change, not just to lead but to revolutionize the industry. As we forge ahead, our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and global connectivity will continue to be the cornerstones of our journey," he...Turkey arrests 33 suspected of spying for Israel, planning abductions
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said, "We will never allow espionage activities to be conducted against the national unity and solidarity of our country."Exiled Hamas deputy head killed in Israeli drone strike
A high-level security official told AFP that Saleh al-Aruri was killed along with his bodyguards in the strike by Israel. A second security official confirmed the information, adding two floors of the targeted building and one car were damaged. Lebanese media said a total of six people were killed in...UAE’s CEPA program marks ‘exponential growth’
“Trade has always been important to the UAE, a bridge connecting our products, skills, and natural resources to the world, infusing our economy with its latest ideas and innovations. As underlined by the ‘We The UAE 2031’ vision, trade is now a cornerstone of our economic development and diversification ambitions,"...Israel’s Gaza assault to continue throughout 2024, says army
The Israeli military spokesman said the army was currently "planning the management of the forces operating in the field" in the months ahead. He added some of the 300,000 army reservists would get a break from the conflict, with Israel seeking to boost its war-hit economy.GCC in the crossfire amid growing US-China tech war
Amid ongoing US-China technological rivalry, Gulf countries face crucial choices in balancing their economic and technological relations with both superpowers.Welcoming 2024: A year of hope, healing, and unity
"Hopefully, 2024 will be a year in which we overcome the troubled period that started with the coup attempt, grew with the COVID-19 pandemic, and deepened with conflicts in our region, as we refocus on our goals.," the Turkish president adds in his New Year message.GCC makes pivotal strides in development, diplomacy
In 2023, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman and Kuwait collectively advanced in technology and sustainable development, achieving global integration.19 pro-Iran fighters killed in Syria strikes, says monitor
Air strikes in eastern Syria "likely" launched by Israel killed at least 19 pro-Iran fighters, a war monitor said. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said "19 pro-Iranian fighters, including four Syrians, and six Iraqis, were killed and more than 18 were wounded" in at least nine air strikes overnight...US approves ’emergency’ sale of munitions to Israel
Washington, United States - The United States on Friday announced the approval of a $147.5 million sale of 155mm high-explosive artillery munitions and related equipment to Israel under an emergency provision that waives the usual congressional review. The same provision was used earlier this month to approve the sale of nearly...‘Let’s resolve to make 2024 a year of building trust’
"The United Nations will keep rallying the world for peace, sustainable development and human rights. Let’s resolve to make 2024 a year of building trust and hope in all that we can accomplish together. I wish you a happy and peaceful New Year," the United Nations Secretary-General adds.UN agency says Israel targeted Palestinian aid convoy
Gaza City, Palestinian Territories - The United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees said on Friday an aid convoy came under fire by the Israeli military in the Gaza Strip, without causing any casualties. "Israeli soldiers fired at an aid convoy as it returned from northern Gaza along a route designated by...Pakistan bans New Year’s Eve celebrations in solidarity with Gaza
New Year's Eve is usually marked in boisterous fashion in Pakistan, with fireworks and aerial gunfire -- as well as a bank holiday on January 1. Sharjah, an emirate of the United Arab Emirates, on Thursday banned New Year's Eve fireworks over the war in Gaza.Hamas delegation to discuss Egypt’s Gaza ceasefire plan
Sources close to Hamas say Cairo's three-stage plan provides for renewable ceasefires, a staggered release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners in Israel, and ultimately a ceasefire to end the war sparked by the deadly October 7 attack on Israel. It also provides for a Palestinian...NYC protesters for Gaza ceasefire hold mock funeral
Holding banners demanding an immediate ceasefire, the activists gathered in Manhattan's Bryant Park while some briefly stood in the middle of the busy Sixth Avenue in the heart of New York's Midtown district. Several women shrouded in black held baby dolls swaddled in white cloths to represent the toll the...US warship shoots down drone, missile fired by Yemen’s Houthis
Houthis have repeatedly targeted vessels in the vital Red Sea shipping lane with strikes they say are in support of Palestinians in Gaza, where Israel is battling Hamas. The attacks are endangering a transit route that carries up to 12 percent of global trade, prompting the United States to set...‘Gulf-Korea FTA marks historic economic milestone’
"The implementation of such free trade agreements follows directives from GCC leaders aimed at strengthening economic ties with other countries and international blocs and fostering joint trade and investment interests," he adds, noting that the deal signifies a shared commitment to bolster the strategic alliance and economic cooperation.Israel bombs Gaza as UN warns civilians face ‘grave peril’
Ashraf al-Qudra, spokesman for the health ministry in Gaza, reported more than 200 deaths "including entire families" over the past 24 hours in strikes across the territory. An AFP correspondent reported heavy artillery strikes overnight particularly on Khan Yunis. The Israeli army has deployed an additional brigade to Khan Yunis,...Donkey head used to desecrate Jerusalem Muslim cemetery
Describing the 35-year-old as "unbalanced", police said he was arrested after they were alerted that a man had "broken the law and disrupted public order by hanging the head of a donkey" at the cemetery. Photographs circulating on social media showed the head of a donkey hanging from a fence...Macron asks Netanyahu for ‘lasting ceasefire’ in Gaza
Macron told the Israeli premier of his "deepest concern" about civilian deaths and the humanitarian emergency in Gaza. He also insisted on the importance of measures to end violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinian civilians in the occupied West Bank and prevent new planned settlements.UAE’s hiring landscape sees rise in homegrown talent
"The challenge today is not just in assimilating this fresh talent but in bridging the gap between them and the established workforce. We aim to create a harmonious environment that values both technology and human interaction, shaping future leaders," adds the Managing Director of Canon Middle East and Turkey.Gaza death toll tops 21,000 as Israel says war to last ‘many more months’
Israel again pounded Gaza with air strikes and shelling after its military chief warned the war raging with Hamas since the Palestinian group's October 7 attacks will last "many more months". A strike hit a house near Al-Amal hospital in Khan Yunis, killing 22 people and wounding 34, the Gaza...Bahrain emerges as a thriving hub for tech startups
Entrepreneurs equipped with the right skills, a robust business strategy, and the ability to forge meaningful collaborations are well-positioned to succeed in Bahrain's evolving tech landscape and beyond. As the ecosystem continues to mature, the potential for startups to significantly impact the region's economy is substantial, he adds.Human Rights Monitor submits documents on Gaza executions to UN
GENEVA, SWITZERLAND - The Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Monitor documented, in a preliminary file submitted to UN special rapporteurs and the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, dozens of field executions cases carried out by the Israeli forces in the Gaza Strip. It also called for immediate investigation to hold the...WHO decries deadly strike on Gaza refugee camp
Rows of victims' bodies, shrouded in white bags, lined the ground at Al-Aqsa hospital in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza, ahead of a mass funeral. WHO has warned that only nine of Gaza's original 36 hospitals remain even partially functional. It has termed the situation as unacceptable, demanding a ceasefire.Acute hunger, healthcare collapse worsen Gaza crisis
The situation in Gaza is a humanitarian catastrophe, with hospitals like Al-Shifa and Al-Sahaba facing dire shortages of medical supplies and staff, and the population grappling with acute hunger and the threat of famine, adds the World Health Organization Director-General.‘Use AI to bridge global economic gaps, promote peace’
“To ensure AI makes ethical, inclusive, and prosperous decisions, we must educate ourselves on its workings. It’s crucial to manage how and what AI learns, rather than just its outcomes and repercussions,” he adds, underscoring AI’s potential in technological advancement and sustainable development.Israeli forces detain 4,695 Palestinians in West Bank since Oct 7
The Palestinian Prisoners Society (PPS) and the Detainees and Ex-Detainees Affairs Authority say the tally includes the Palestinians detained at their homes and at military checkpoints, in addition to those who surrendered under pressure and those taken hostage.Israeli strikes on Gaza kill 200 people in 24 hours
The high civilian toll in the latest Israeli strikes on the besieged territory comes in spite of growing calls for restraint and for more aid to reach war-stricken Palestinians. But Israel showed little sign of modulating its "Operation Swords of Iron", which aims to rout Hamas as the US urged...ESG and sustainability redefine UAE financial markets
"The UAE's success in establishing a fully regulated carbon market, integrating carbon regulation to manage and trade emissions effectively, providing companies with tools to reduce their carbon footprint," he adds while highlighting the UAE's commitment to achieving net-zero emissions and praising its leadership in this crucial area.Families of Gaza’s Christians tense due to war
Jerusalem - Khalil Sayegh lives in the United States and for days he anxiously awaited news of his family who had taken refuge in Gaza churches to escape the Israel-Hamas war. A few days before Christmas, he learned his father had died due to a lack of medical care, Sayegh...‘Diverse economic needs boost global sukuk market’
"Rising rates negatively impact global issuances of sukuk, thereby affecting the global sukuk market. This reduces the appetite of global investors for entering emerging markets and raises concerns about growth rates when interest rates increase. For issuers, some are often compelled to adapt to high rates due to existing obligations,"...UNSC approves aid resolution as Gaza crisis mounts
As fighting between Israel and Hamas intensifies, the UN Security Council has passed a resolution to enhance aid to Gaza, where civilians face severe hardships.UN resolution urges more aid for Gaza as death toll rises
Fighting between Israel and Hamas in Gaza raged as the UN Security Council approved a much-delayed resolution to boost aid to the besieged Palestinian territory where civilians are struggling to find food. The Hamas-run health ministry said more than 410 people had been killed in Israeli bombardment over 48 hours.UN says Gaza on cusp of famine due to Hamas-Israel war
The Israel-Hamas war is pushing Gaza towards famine, the United Nations warned ahead of an expected Security Council vote on a resolution to boost aid to the Palestinian territory but not call for a ceasefire. Separate diplomatic efforts were also underway for a fresh pause in the worst-ever Gaza war.‘Private sector plays vital role in Gulf integration’
"The GCC has all the potential to become a strong economic alliance capable of asserting itself on the global economic map. This potential is attributed to its natural resources, distinctive geographical location, and robust relations with numerous global economic entities and alliances," adds Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim.Macron says fighting terror does not mean ‘to flatten Gaza’
President Emmanuel Macron told the France 5 broadcaster, "We cannot let the idea take root that an efficient fight against terrorism implies to flatten Gaza or attack civilian populations indiscriminately." While acknowledging "Israel's right to defend itself and fight terror", Macron said France called for the protection of civilians and...



















































