UAE private sector thrives, Urgent call for ceasefire in Jenin, and other top stories, Gulf News Editors comment on July 5 trending news

UAE PRIVATE SECTOR THRIVES: UAE private sector sees strong growth in new orders and hiring, with June's figures reaching the highest since 2019. The non-oil private sector has improved for 31 consecutive survey periods, supporting future job creation. According to the latest PMI data from S&P Global, most of the new jobs were being added in the sales divisions. Retail, travel, tourism, and tech sectors experienced growth and increased hiring. The UAE PMI for June is at 56.9, indicating significant strengthening of business conditions. Costs of operations and input prices continue to rise, impacting inflation. Business owners remain optimistic due to strong order inflows, although sustained discounts may be challenging as input costs increase. (By Nivetha Dayanand, Web Editor)

URGENT CALL FOR CEASEFIRE IN JENIN: The escalating situation in Palestinian territories, specifically in Jenin, is causing worry as thousands of people were evacuated from the Jenin refugee camp during one of Israel's largest military operations in the West Bank in years. The UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has called for an immediate halt to the repeated and escalating campaigns against the Palestinian people, urging Israeli authorities to reduce escalation and avoid actions that exacerbate tension and violence. The UAE emphasised the need to prevent further deterioration of the situation and the perpetuation of the cycle of violence. The targeting of unarmed civilians, medical personnel, and health centres in Jenin and its refugee camp is a big concern and must be halted at an earliest. (By Sadiq Shaban, Opinion Editor)

AVOID WRONG OVERTAKING: Police statistics show that incorrect overtaking and unexpected lane changes while driving were the main causes of traffic accidents. The injuries caused by these accidents ranged from moderate to severe. Road users need to be reminded of driving rules, especially against wrong overtaking, which unnecessarily puts other road users in danger. Those who break this law risk a fine of up to Dh3,000 in the UAE and a one-year license suspension. As we approach the summer, the Traffic and Patrols Department of Ajman Police General Command, has launched a timely campaign as part of an on-going drive to warn motorists of the risks of traffic accidents and measures to make UAE roads safer for all. (By Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor)

BEN STOKES AN UNBELIEVABLE PERFORMER: Ben Stokes has been a phenomenal player and a leader for England in the last four years. The all-rounder, who gave away 24 runs in the last over against the West Indies in the 2016 Twenty20 World Cup final in Kolkata, has been a different player for the Three Lions in all the formats. Though Stokes has decided not to play the 50-over format, still he has been at the forefront for England winning the 50-over World Cup title in 2019 and subsequently the Twenty20 World Cup in Australia last year. He is a transformed player in the last two World Cups and as a leader of the Test team, he has been instrumental in transforming the England team. An unbelievable cricketer, who could perform at the height of his prowess when the chips are down. (By A.K.S. SATISH, Sports Editor)

POP IDOLS AND THEIR NEW FACELESS ENEMIES? Pop idols are facing a new threat - the overzealous behavior of their army of fans. While idols thrive on the energy of a frenzied crowd at their concerts, there is a troubling trend in fan culture that poses a danger. Fans are going to extreme lengths, such as hurling ashes or throwing phones at their beloved artists while they perform on stage. Most recently, country singer Kelsea Ballerini fell victim to such an attack when an unexpected bracelet struck her face, catching her off guard. While expressing adoration is understandable, it is important for fans to establish boundaries. These artists may entertain, but they also deserve to be treated with respect and consideration. And a bit of fan etiquette at concerts won’t hurt anyone. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)