Gaza faces imminent blackout, Travellers adopt 'wait and watch' approach for Israel and more, Gulf News Editors comment on October 11 trending news

GAZA FACES IMMINENT BLACKOUT: The Gaza Strip faces a looming humanitarian catastrophe as Israeli airstrikes, triggered by a deadly mass incursion by Hamas militants, have devastated neighbourhoods, leaving hospitals critically short on supplies and an imminent power blackout due to dwindling fuel reserves. Hostilities continue, even as Hamas continues to hold an estimated 150 individuals hostage, including soldiers and civilians. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has hinted at a ground offensive. This dire situation calls for urgent international intervention to prevent further civilian casualties and protracted suffering, emphasising the pressing need for a sustainable peace solution to address the root causes of this ongoing conflict. (By Sadiq Shaban, Opinion Editor)

UAE TRAVELLERS ADOPT 'WAIT AND WATCH' APPROACH FOR ISRAEL TRAVEL: UAE airlines are adopting diverse approaches to their Israel flights as cancellations surge amid escalating tensions, particularly impacting business travel. International carriers have significantly reduced services due to the seriousness of the situation in Israel and Gaza. National carrier Etihad Airways has cancelled operations since Saturday while Emirates and flydubai continue to operate daily flights. That said, travellers also put their trips to Israel on hold, adopting a wait-and-watch approach. The cancellations came just as business-related trips between the countries were heading into the peak demand phase. After signing the Abraham Accords in 2020, Israel has become a top source market for tourists in Dubai. The Emirate welcomed 209,000 visitors from January to July 2023 alone. Travel experts have said that the resumption of travel to Israel remains highly uncertain and is contingent on de-escalating regional tensions. The evolving situation makes it challenging to determine when normal travel patterns will be restored. (By Dhanusha Gokulan, Chief Reporter)

NEW ERA IN MOBILITY: In the vibrant heart of Abu Dhabi, a new era of smart mobility has dawned, offering residents and visitors an innovative way to move around the city. The Integrated Transport Center (ITC) has introduced the cutting-edge Automated Rapid Transit (ART) service, a transportation solution that has already graced Yas Island and Saadiyat Island and now graces Abu Dhabi Island. Each journey is capable of accommodating up to 200 passengers. These three-carriage electric vehicles, cocooned in air-conditioned luxury, seamlessly merges the best of buses and trams. ARTs already glide between Reem Mall on Reem Island and Marina Mall on the Abu Dhabi Corniche via Zayed the First Street. It’s just the start of an eco-friendly and emissions-free drive. This launch manifests Abu Dhabi's commitment to innovation, and the ART service is a testament to its vision for a dynamic and progressive future. (By Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor)

PAKISTAN BEGINNING TO LOOK THEIR BEST IN WORLD CUP: Pakistan's victory in the World Cup match against Sri Lanka marks a significant turnaround for the Green Shirts. It's an important win for Babar Azam's men as they strive to secure a spot in the semifinals. Pakistan has maintained a flawless 7-0 record against Sri Lanka in the World Cup, but that record was threatened when the Islanders set a high target. After suffering defeats to Sri Lanka in their last two encounters, the Twenty20 Asia Cup final in Dubai last year and the semifinals of the Asia Cup last month, Pakistan has demonstrated that they remain a formidable force in international cricket. They have showcased their familiar style of play that has made them world-beaters. While the tournament still has a long way to go, each victory brings them closer to the next stage. Pakistan has always possessed a strong bowling attack, and an exceptional batting performance by World Cup debutant Abdullah Shafique and the dependable Mohammad Rizwan must have instilled much-needed confidence in the team. Pakistan is starting to find their form once again. (By A.K.S. SATISH, Sports Editor)

AMBER HEARD RETURNS TO SPOTLIGHT WITH NEW CLAIMS: Hollywood actress Amber Heard is back in the spotlight. The legal documents from her defamation trial last year are out and reveal startling claims made during her therapy sessions in 2021 while filming the 'Aquaman' sequel. Heard claims her co-star Jason Momoa intentionally mirrored her ex, Johnny Depp, in both fashion and behaviour, suggesting psychological manipulation. In one session, she alleged that Momoa emulated Depp's style, down to the iconic multi-fingered rings. While Mamoa has declined to comment, a DC Studios representative defended Momoa's professionalism, asserting he maintained decorum at all times during filming of ‘Aquaman 2’. This scandal is likely to blow up in the coming days and adds yet another layer to Depp and Heard’s tumultuous and complex relationship. The revelations also raise questions about the dynamics on the 'Aquaman' set and the intricacies of interpersonal conflicts in the world of Hollywood. Who said drama is only limited to the big screens? (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)