The project will also develop diverse connectivity routes to improve efficiency and reliability, while delivering advanced latency performance.

Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice-President of the UAE, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Office, witnessed the launch by e& of the strategic project to develop and expand digital infrastructure capabilities in the UAE and abroad.

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The initiative aims to strengthen the country’s readiness for the AI economy and reinforce its position in the global digital landscape.

The announcement came during Sheikh Mansour’s meeting with e&, one of the investments of the Emirates Investment Authority (EIA). In his capacity as Chairman of the EIA, Sheikh Mansour was briefed on the group’s plans and future projects to develop digital infrastructure and keep pace with the rapid growth of artificial intelligence and the digital economy.

The project includes increasing international connectivity capacity to more than 500 terabits per second by 2030, from its current capacity of 20 terabits per second. It will also develop diverse connectivity routes designed to improve efficiency and reliability and deliver faster, more stable connections.

During the meeting, Sheikh Mansour stressed the importance of investing in digital infrastructure as a key pillar of the future economy, supporting innovation and advanced technologies and strengthening the UAE’s global competitiveness.

He also emphasised the need for greater integration of national efforts and a stronger role for national institutions in supporting the UAE’s strategic direction in artificial intelligence and the digital economy.

Advanced digital infrastructure

In a post on X, Sheikh Mansour said: “Today, we witnessed a new milestone in e&’s journey as it celebrates 50 years of achievements and launches its vision for the next phase. A national institution that has accompanied the UAE’s development and contributed to building its digital capabilities, e& continues its role today with an ambition that keeps pace with global transformations and strengthens the UAE’s position in the future of technology and artificial intelligence.”

Sheikh Mansour added: “The UAE continues to invest in building advanced digital infrastructure, driven by its vision for the future and its belief that readiness for the next phase begins with possessing the capabilities that support economic growth, accelerate innovation and enhance the country’s global competitiveness.”

“Artificial intelligence represents a major pillar of the development journey in the next phase. Developing our digital capabilities will create the environment necessary to harness its potential on a broad scale, enabling government and private-sector institutions to continue evolving and innovating efficiently and confidently,” he said.

Sheikh Mansour stressed that the UAE’s ambition goes beyond keeping pace with technological transformation to actively contributing to its development and shaping its future.

He noted that major digital infrastructure projects strengthen the country’s readiness for the future and consolidate its position as a global hub for advanced technology and artificial intelligence.

AI-powered vision for the future

Sheikh Mansour also witnessed the launch of e&’s 50th-anniversary celebrations, during which the group unveiled its vision of becoming a leader among AI-powered and AI-enabling telecommunications companies.

The group also announced that it will continue its journey under its historic “Etisalat” identity, a name that has been associated with the trust of its customers and communities for five decades.

The project represents the first major commitment under the group’s new strategy, which focuses on advancing the telecommunications sector through artificial intelligence. The strategy is built around four core business pillars: telecommunications; AI and business solutions; infrastructure; and financial technology.

Jassem Mohamed Bu Ataba Al Zaabi, Chairman of e&, said: “This project reflects our conviction that the UAE’s role is not limited to adopting artificial intelligence, but extends to governing it and innovating through it. This requires unprecedented digital infrastructure in the history of the country, while ensuring full ownership of that infrastructure.”

International connectivity to rise from 20Tbps to more than 500Tbps

Al Zaabi said increasing international connectivity capacity from 20 terabits per second to more than 500 terabits per second represents a strategic step towards meeting growing global demand for data processing and data flows, particularly amid rapid advances in artificial intelligence.

The expansion will enhance the resilience and reliability of digital infrastructure and meet the requirements of AI clusters in the UAE and global cloud service providers. It will also support the group’s operations and customers across its various markets.

“By relying on diverse connectivity routes and designs that ensure the fastest levels of latency, the project will help consolidate the UAE’s connection to the global digital economy in line with the highest standards of speed and stability, while ensuring the UAE’s digital sovereignty,” Al Zaabi said.

He added: “This commitment is an extension of the approach that has guided the group’s journey over the past 50 years and represents our first step into the next 50 years. With every technological breakthrough, e& has been committed to building the robust infrastructure on which the country relies, while ensuring high levels of resilience and stability across all our markets.”

250 million subscribers across 38 countries

e& operates in 38 countries and serves more than 250 million subscribers worldwide, giving the project a reach that extends well beyond the UAE and connecting the country’s national infrastructure to the global digital ecosystem.

The project also supports the UAE’s ambition to become a global hub for advanced technology and artificial intelligence, strengthening its digital competitiveness and enabling government and private-sector institutions to deploy AI applications at scale with confidence in the infrastructure supporting them.

Bradshaw was previewing the Denver Broncos’ matchup with the San Francisco 49ers when he became animated while discussing Denver’s comeback the previous week. During the segment, he knocked over a coffee cup beside him, spilling it onto Menefee as the host tried to clean up the mess.

Menefee briefly left the studio to deal with the spill before returning, while Bradshaw continued his analysis. When the incident was brought up, Bradshaw insisted, “I did not do that,” before pointing at Menefee and claiming he had pulled the cup.

“How did I knock the coffee over on myself?” Menefee asked. “You pulled it,” Bradshaw replied. “You deliberately pulled it.”

The exchange quickly spread online, with fans questioning whether Bradshaw should continue on the programme.

“How is he still employed. He’s atrocious as a commentator and broadcaster,” one fan wrote.

Another said it was “getting sad” and suggested FOX should consider Tony Romo, who recently parted ways with CBS Sports after nine years as its lead NFL analyst. Apart from the coffee spill incident, fans were also unhappy with some of his takes.

Other reactions included, “It’s actually sad that they roll him out there every week,” while another fan wrote, “Time for new blood. Menefee is good. Rest are terrible.” A fifth fan was even more direct, writing: “Bradshaw should have been off the air a decade ago.”

Bradshaw, a four-time Super Bowl champion with the Pittsburgh Steelers, has been part of FOX NFL Sunday since 1994 and remains one of the programme’s longest-serving personalities. He hasn’t shown any signs of retirement and has even shared his desire to working through Fox’s 2029 Super Bowl broadcast, during which he will 80 years old.

Shavon Gayden, 48, was charged with one felony count of first-degree murder in connection with the death, Chicago police said in a statement Sunday.

Police said the girl was walking in the Chatham neighborhood Saturday morning when a woman carrying an unspecified sharp object approached her and stabbed her multiple times in the back. Bystanders chased after the woman and detained her, police said. Television networks showed a commercial strip lined with a restaurant, a nail salon and a market cordoned off by police tape afterward.

Gayden, who is from Chicago, was initially scheduled to appear for a hearing Monday morning but was hospitalised and was not going to appear, the Cook County State's Attorney's Office said in an email. Her injuries were not considered life-threatening.

The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the child as Edi Mari Hernandez Chacon. She was pronounced dead at Comer Children's Hospital.

A security photo from a nearby business showed the girl walking hand in hand with an older female when she was attacked, WLS-TV reported.

It was not immediately clear if there was any relationship between the attacker and the girl. Police have not commented on a possible motive for the stabbing and declined Sunday to provide further details.

Attempts to reach members of Gayden’s family by phone were unsuccessful. Matthew Hendrickson, press secretary for the Cook County Public Defender, said that the office was assigned to Gayden at a hearing Monday but declined to comment further.

In a GoFundMe post to raise funds for a funeral, the girl's uncle, Richard Hernandez Chacon, wrote that Edi Mari's “passing leaves an indescribable void and profound grief in all of us who loved her.”

Messages left with Hernandez Chacon and another person believed to be a family member were not immediately returned.

"There were some threats, and rather than tempting the enemy — we'll capture the enemy and beat the enemy, but why should we leave them there? So we moved them around a little bit, not very far," Trump told reporters at the White House.

In a video shared, Dutt addressed reactions to his comments and said several people had contacted him after the episode, with some expressing surprise and others strongly disagreeing with what he had said.

“I fully understand their feelings,” Dutt said, explaining that his comments were made as part of the show’s script.

The actor said television programmes often involve performers following prepared conversations and added that several statements made during the segment were part of the performance and its wider context.

He stressed that the remarks should not be interpreted as a reflection of his personal thoughts or feelings.

Dutt said he respected the trust and affection of those who had questioned his comments and did not want a scripted performance to create a misunderstanding about his actual views.

He ended the video by saying he hoped his explanation would clear up the issue, adding, “Jai Hind. Jai Bharat.”

Actor had earlier apologised for any offence

The latest clarification comes a day after Dutt addressed the controversy in a post on X.

He said it had never been his intention to hurt, offend or disrespect any individual, community or institution. He also described the conversation as scripted, light-hearted and humorous.

Dutt said the segment was similar in spirit to the humour and satire seen in his Munna Bhai films, particularly the idea of ‘Gandhigiri’, which promotes love, warmth, togetherness and goodwill.

The controversy began after Dutt appeared on Shekhar Suman’s show, where he spoke positively about Indians being warm and hospitable but said he could no longer feel the same sense of peace in the country.

“There should be peace here. I can’t feel that peace in our country anymore,” he said.

Dutt added that he prayed to Shivji for those days to return, remarks that drew criticism on social media and prompted his subsequent clarifications.

Conceived as a museum that responds directly to its environment, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is deeply rooted in Abu Dhabi's landscape, climate and cultural vision. From the earliest stages of design development, Gehry and his team undertook extensive site visits and research to understand how people gather, move and experience the emirate. The result is a site-specific architectural landmark shaped by local context, environmental responsiveness and cultural exchange.

The museum's design extends beyond traditional gallery walls, integrating shaded courtyards, terraced outdoor spaces and areas for gathering that encourage visitors to engage with both the art and their surroundings. Inspired by the distinct qualities of Abu Dhabi, the architecture creates a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor experience.

From the outset, the design was shaped by an artist-centred vision. Through a series of physical models and design studies, Gehry Partners explored not only the form of the building but how architecture could expand creative possibilities for artists and enrich the visitor experience. The resulting museum offers a dynamic journey through interconnected galleries, exhibition spaces and outdoor installations, creating opportunities for discovery, reflection and engagement with art at every turn.

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Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Abu Dhabi has always understood that culture shapes who we are and how we connect with the world. Every institution within Saadiyat Cultural District reflects that conviction; rooted in this place and open to the world. From the very beginning, Frank Gehry understood that this building had to be inspired by the emirate, being shaped by Abu Dhabi’s light, its climate, its coastline and its traditions. What he has given us is a museum that draws from its surroundings, a building that carries the forms of this region into something entirely new. Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is a work of art in its own right. It will stand as one of the great works of architecture of our time, and as a space where artists and audiences from the United Arab Emirates, the region, and the world can come together in ways that only this museum makes possible.”

Meaghan Lloyd, Partner at Gehry Partners, said: “Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is an expression of Frank Gehry’s love for Abu Dhabi and his deep respect for its vision, courage, and patience. From the first, he was inspired by the scale of the Saadiyat Island Cultural District and by Abu Dhabi’s strategic investment in culture as a way to drive progress and shape the future of the country. Frank was always mindful of the faith Abu Dhabi’s leaders had placed in him, and of the responsibility that came with a project of this importance. He approached the design carefully, searching for an architectural language that respected both Abu Dhabi’s history and its aspirations. The result is a building of great scale, but one that never loses sight of the individual: the visitor, the artist, and the work of art. As always with Frank, the mission was ambitious, generous, and optimistic. All of us at Gehry Partners are honoured and humbled to carry this project to completion in his name.”

At the heart of the project is an ambition to create exceptional possibilities for artists and audiences alike. Guggenheim Abu Dhabi encompasses 28 galleries, 11,600 square metres of interior gallery space and 23,000 square metres of outdoor exhibition space within a total building area of 84,000 square metres. Its expansive galleries, varied spatial configurations and integrated outdoor environments provide artists with the opportunity to realise ambitious commissions and exhibitions across a wide range of media and scales.

Cluster of monumental cones

One of the museum’s most distinctive architectural features is its cluster of monumental cones, nine clad in stainless steel mesh, and one in onyx and glass. These sculptural forms respond directly to Abu Dhabi's climate by creating shaded public spaces and facilitating airflow across courtyards and terraces. Drawing warm air upwards while directing cooling breezes below, the cones contribute to a more comfortable microclimate.

The museum's setting on Saadiyat Island, surrounded by water and positioned at the meeting point of land and sea, also played a central role in the design. Its relationship to the coastline informed the building's orientation, movement patterns and public spaces, reinforcing a sense of openness and connection between the museum, its environment and the wider Saadiyat Cultural District.

As part of Guggenheim Abu Dhabi’s inaugural programming, the museum’s exhibition dedicated to Frank Gehry will offer an unprecedented look at the creative journey behind one of the region's most significant cultural landmarks. Through years of original sketches, hand-built early models, and archival materials, the exhibition will reveal the evolution of Gehry's vision evolved in response to Abu Dhabi's landscape, culture, and artistic ambitions, culminating in Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, a museum designed specifically for its setting.

As Guggenheim Abu Dhabi prepares to open on 11 December 2026, the museum enters its final phase of delivery. It will serve as a platform for artistic exchange, research and cultural dialogue, welcoming artists and audiences from the United Arab Emirates, the region and around the world, while contributing to Abu Dhabi's growing role as a global cultural capital.

Tickets are now available at www.guggenheimabudhabi.ae for visitors looking to be among the first to experience Guggenheim Abu Dhabi's galleries, exhibitions and public spaces when the museum opens.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) emphasised that Israel’s continued attacks on Syrian territory constitute a flagrant violation of international law and the 1974 Disengagement Agreement between Syria and Israel, which Israel is obliged to uphold.

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The Ministry reaffirmed the UAE’s unwavering position in support of Syria’s stability and territorial integrity, expressing its solidarity with the Syrian people and support for all efforts aimed at fulfilling their aspirations for security, peace, dignity, peaceful coexistence, and development.

The Ministry called on the international community to take immediate action to halt Israel’s repeated attacks on Syrian territory and prevent further escalation that could heighten regional tensions and threaten regional and international peace and security.

The three countries in August signed the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement committing them to come to each other's aid in the event one were attacked.

The pact unites NATO's second-largest army, that of Turkey, with the Islamic world's only nuclear-armed state, Pakistan, and the leading Gulf power, Saudi Arabia.

Their representatives held an emergency meeting in Riyadh on Monday where they noted recent attacks on Saudi Arabia, in particular ones targeting the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, without mentioning the Iran-backed Houthis by name.

The trio "reaffirmed their unequivocal rejection of any attack or threat against the Kingdom's security and territorial integrity", they said in a joint statement.

They also agreed "to move immediately to the practical implementation of the collective defence commitments and to take the necessary measures to provide the agreed military forces and capabilities and ensure their rapid deployment in the Kingdom".

The statement did not specify what sort of role the troops would fill once in Saudi Arabia.

The kingdom has faced repeated Houthi attacks targeting its cities, oil infrastructure and ships ever since Yemen's civil war flared back to life in July.

In September, the group launched a new offensive that seized swathes of territory from Yemen's Saudi-backed government, which on Monday launched a counteroffensive with Riyadh's support seeking to retake all Houthi territory, some of it held for more than a decade.

Turkey and Pakistan will undertake a "rapid deployment" of troops to Saudi Arabia as part of a new mutual defence alliance, the three countries said Monday, as the Gulf kingdom faces escalating attacks from Yemen's Houthis.

Following a meeting in Riyadh, the trio agreed "to move immediately to the practical implementation of the collective defence commitments and to take the necessary measures to provide the agreed military forces and capabilities and ensure their rapid deployment in the Kingdom", according to a joint statement.

Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni arrives in Doha

Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni arrived in Doha on Monday for talks with Qatari officials, Iranian state media reported.

Momeni, who previously held talks with his Pakistani counterpart as Islamabad sought to mediate between Tehran and Washington, was officially welcomed by Qatar’s Minister of State Abdulaziz bin Faisal upon arrival.

The visit came at the invitation of Qatari Interior Minister Khalifa bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. Momeni is expected to meet his Qatari counterpart and other officials during the trip to discuss bilateral ties, according to Iranian media.

US Mission issues statement

The US Mission has strongly encouraged all US citizens to remain vigilant and follow the guidance of national alerts released by Saudi Arabia’s Civil Defense in a tweet.

'Iran must come to terms with US or face military consequences': Israeli envoy warns Tehran

Israel’s Ambassador to India Reuven Azar on Monday said Iran's attempts to disrupt global shipping and hijack international trade through the Strait of Hormuz have failed, warning that Tehran must either come to terms with the United States or face direct military consequences.

Contextualising the ongoing friction between Washington and Tehran, Ambassador Azar highlighted Iran's diplomatic stance and warned that its refusal to engage constructively will ultimately force a severe response, accusing Tehran of negotiating in "bad faith."

"The Iranians have proven time and again that they are negotiating in bad faith. Eventually, they will have to face reality: either come to terms with the United States or face the consequences militarily," Ambassador Azar stated.

Tanker struck by projectile in Hormuz

UKMTO has received a report of an incident within the Strait of Hormuz.

A tanker has reported being struck by an unknown projectile, causing a fire in the engine room.

There are no reported casualties or environmental impact at the time of this warning.

Authorities are investigating. Vessels have been advised to transit with caution and report any suspicious activity to UKMTO.

This is the fourth incident reported to UKMTO in the last 24 hours and marks another major attack on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, with at least seven tanker attacks reported during the first week of October.

Iran president says talks with US 'meaningless': state media

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Monday that negotiations with the United States were "meaningless" and only resulted in renewed American attacks, state media reported.

"So far, they have attacked us three times after talks, and this shows that they are not seeking dialogue; rather, their goal is to overthrow the Islamic Republic of Iran," Pezeshkian was quoted as saying by the state news agency IRNA. "With an enemy that every day resorts to assassination, sanctions, pressure and threats, and that breaks its commitments, negotiations are meaningless."

UN chief concerned by 'sharp escalation' of Yemen fighting: spokesman

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres raised the alarm Monday over the "sharp escalation" of fighting in Yemen, his spokesman said, as Saudi Arabia led a counteroffensive against Houthi fighters.

"The Secretary-General is deeply concerned by the sharp escalation in fighting, which has intensified markedly in recent days. He condemns the continued Houthi cross-border attacks against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia," said his spokesman Stephane Dujarric.

Loud explosions heard in northern Riyadh: AFP journalist, residents

Loud explosions heard in northern Riyadh: AFP journalist, residents.

Donald Trump on what's really driving up gasoline prices

President Donald Trump argued that rising US gasoline prices are now being driven less by disruption in the Strait of Hormuz and more by pressure on global refining capacity, pointing to Ukrainian strikes on Russian refineries and refinery closures in Democratic-led states such as California. Crude flows from the Middle East have rebounded sharply in recent weeks, at times exceeding pre-war levels, but fuel markets remain strained by refinery outages, tighter supplies of refined products and higher transport costs.

Houthis warn Saudi airspace dangerous for civilian flights: official media

Yemen's Houthis warned airlines on Monday that Saudi airspace was unsafe for civilian flights, the group's Saba news agency reported, after the Saudi-led coalition said it had joined a counteroffensive announced by Yemen's internationally recognised goverment.

In a statement published by Saba, the Houthis' HOCC agency said Saudi airspace "is not safe" and "will be the theatre of operations of our armed forces". 

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Iran executes two men linked to anti-govt protests

Iran's judiciary said two men were executed on Monday for involvement in the deaths of four police officers during anti-government protests that peaked in January.

Authorities accused them of murdering the officers in the central city of Isfahan during protests that began in the capital Tehran in December over economic grievances before spreading nationwide.

The movement rapidly evolved into large anti-government rallies that peaked on January 8 and 9, causing unprecedented destruction and thousands of deaths.

"Alireza Sepahi and Alireza Raissi were hanged this morning after the Supreme Court upheld the verdict," the judiciary's Mizan Online website said, without specifying the dates of their arrest or trial.

Tanker in Hormuz turns back after Iranian threats: maritime agency

A tanker turned back after being threatened by Iranian forces in the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, a British maritime agency reported.

Iran has sought to assert control over the vital shipping route since the start of its war with the United States and Israel.

It has repeatedly targeted vessels it accuses of transiting without authorisation, while the US is maintaining a counter-blockade of Iranian ports.

"A tanker transiting the Strait of Hormuz inbound was hailed by the IRGC and instructed to turn back or the vessel would be targeted," the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations Centre (UKMTO) said, referring to Iran's Revolutionary Guards, the ideological arm of the country's military.

"The master of the tanker has confirmed that they have complied with the instruction," the UKMTO said.

The ship was entering the strait near the Omani coastline, the agency added.

At Oct 7 memorial, Netanyahu says will be no Hamas rule in Gaza

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday vowed there would be no Hamas rule in Gaza as he attended a memorial event marking three years since the militant group's October 7, 2023 attack.

Monday is a national day of remembrance for the deadliest day in Israel's history, with flags lowered to half-mast on public buildings from 6:29 am, the time the attack began.

Speaking during a state ceremony at the Mount Herzl military cemetery in Jerusalem, Netanyahu said "we have achieved enormous accomplishments, but there are still missions ahead of us, and we intend to complete them".

"There will be no Hamas rule in Gaza," he added, vowing to continue targeting anyone who was involved in the attack or who held hostages.

Iran says it disabled Starlink terminals during protests

Iran managed to disable terminals used for Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet service during anti-government protests in January, a senior Iranian official said on Monday.

The comments represent the first time an Iranian official has spoken about the alleged capabilities to counter the technology in Iran.

During the wave of protests over economic conditions that peaked in early January, Iran cut off the internet for several weeks, preventing the sharing of information with the rest of the world about the demonstrations and subsequent crackdown.

Houthis say strikes in Yemen's Sanaa region kill woman student

Yemen's Houthis said Monday that Saudi airstrikes killed a woman student in Sanaa governorate, after government forces announced an offensive on the capital city.

"A student was killed and two others were wounded in a Saudi attack" targeting the Bani Hashish area, the Houthi-affiliated TV channel Al-Masirah reported, saying strikes also hit the Saada region, a Houthi stronghold.

Israeli soldiers kill Palestinian accused of West Bank ramming

Israeli forces killed one Palestinian and injured two others in the occupied West Bank on Monday, Palestinian authorities said, while the military said troops fired at a car that had hit an army vehicle.

The military said a "vehicle carrying three suspects... accelerated toward an IDF vehicle and hit it" in the area of Bani Naim, north of the city of Hebron. 

In a statement, it said no injuries were reported among Israeli forces and that soldiers "responded by firing toward the vehicle, and hits were identified."

The Palestinian General Authority for Civil Affairs said "Israeli forces opened fire on a civilian vehicle" at the entrance to Bani Naim, without giving details on whether those inside had been attempting to ram soldiers.

"One citizen was killed and two young men sustained serious and moderate injuries," it added, saying the wounded had been transferred to hospitals inside Israel and that the identity of the deceased remained unknown.

Hormuz oil squeeze may last two years: Aramco chief

The global squeeze on crude oil and refined fuel supplies is set to worsen, while rebuilding stockpiles depleted during the Strait of Hormuz crisis could take up to two years, Saudi Aramco Chief Executive Amin Nasser said on Monday.

Speaking to Reuters at the Energy Intelligence conference in London, Nasser said oil markets would remain under pressure until the strategic waterway fully reopens and market confidence returns.

"Until Hormuz fully re-opens and confidence returns, the crude reality is that pressure at both ends of the barrel will intensify. Even then, replenishing inventories while meeting demand could take up to two years," Nasser said.

His warning points to a potentially prolonged impact from the disruption, even if oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz begin to normalise.

Almost 3 billion barrels of oil supply have been lost since the start of the conflict, Nasser said, while about 1 billion barrels have been released from stocks to help offset the shortfall.

Nasser said the remaining roughly 6 billion barrels of oil in storage should not be considered practically available to the market.

"The system is already straining," he said.

"And with precious little else the world can turn to, the supply resilience cushion is scarily thin," he told the two-day conference attended by leaders from across the energy sector.

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Iran’s IRGC orders tanker to turn back in Hormuz

A tanker transiting the Strait of Hormuz was ordered to turn back after being hailed by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said on Monday.

The incident occurred about 11 nautical miles north of Khasab, Oman, according to UKMTO Advisory 152-26.

The tanker was inbound through the Strait of Hormuz when it was hailed by the IRGC and instructed to turn back or face being targeted.

The vessel’s master confirmed that the tanker complied with the instruction, UKMTO said.

Authorities are investigating the incident.

UKMTO advised vessels operating in the area to transit with caution and report any suspicious activity.

100 fighter jets join Saudi-led coalition operation in Yemen

The Saudi Arabia-led military coalition says it has destroyed 324 high-value targets in Yemen since launching “Operation Dawn of Yemen”, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on X.

More than 100 fighter jets took part in the operation at dawn on Monday, coalition spokesman Major-General Turki Al Maliki said.

“We are providing air support to back the Yemeni armed forces on the ground around the clock,” Al Maliki said.

The coalition said it is also providing air protection for the Bab Al Mandab Strait, while operations against moving targets are continuing.

It said aerial support for Yemeni government forces on the ground is being provided around the

IndiGo hikes fuel charges from October 6

IndiGo has revised its fuel charges for all new bookings made from 0001 hours on October 6, 2026, citing a sharp rise in Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices.

The airline said the increase in fuel costs, along with recent geopolitical developments in West Asia, has pushed ATF prices to among their highest levels in the last decade.

"The continuous rise in the fuel prices, with the latest month-on-month increase exceeding 14%, has taken ATF costs to levels that are amongst the highest in the last decade," IndiGo said in a statement.

Under the revised charges, passengers travelling up to 500 km on domestic routes will pay a fuel charge of Rs 375.

For domestic flights covering 501-1,000 km, the charge will be Rs 600, while flights covering 1,001-1,500 km will attract a charge of Rs 900.

For journeys between 1,501 and 2,000 km, passengers will pay Rs 1,150. Flights covering more than 2,000 km will carry a fuel charge of Rs 1,300.

IndiGo has also revised fuel charges for international flights based on the distance and destination.

For flights within the SAARC region, routes up to 500 km will attract a charge of Rs 1,000, while routes covering 501 km and above will carry a charge of Rs 3,000.

Flights to Southeast Asia, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Middle East, and North and East Asia will attract a fuel charge of Rs 5,500.

The charge for flights to Africa has been fixed at Rs 6,000, while passengers travelling to Europe will pay Rs 10,000.

IndiGo said the revised charges were kept lower than the increase in its actual fuel costs to limit the impact on passengers.

Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Turkey to meet in Riyadh

Senior officials from Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey will meet in Riyadh on Monday for a meeting of the Strategic Political and Defence Committee (SPDC), established under the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement.

Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif and Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir will attend the meeting, Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry said.

Turkey will be represented by Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, National Defence Minister Yasar Guler and Chief of General Staff Gen. Selcuk Bayraktaroglu, according to Turkish Foreign Ministry sources.

The meeting will discuss the latest developments in the region and review ongoing cooperation under the Mecca Agreement.

Iran reviewing US response to 7-day ceasefire plan

Minister for Legal and International Affairs Kazem Gharibabadi made the remarks in Tehran on Sunday (local time), saying that the United States has submitted its views on Iran's proposal through mediators.

He stressed that Iran's proposal is the "seven-day plan" that was presented to the other side by Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi in New York late last month.

Gharibabadi said, "The US views are currently being reviewed inside the country through the appropriate channels," adding that whenever Iran's final views are ready, the necessary action will be taken through "appropriate channels."

He added that Iran is simultaneously making the necessary preparations for any other scenario as well, reports Xinhua news agency.

Mideast oil exports exceeded pre-Iran war levels: Kpler data

Middle East crude exports rose above pre-war levels on four days in the final week of September, reaching up to 22.5 million bpd, Reuters reported, citing Kpler data. Exports averaged 18 million bpd before the US-Israel war on Iran began.

The rise came despite increased tanker attacks, including incidents in the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Aden.

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Iranian oil minister quits, replaced by oil executive: Presidency

Iran's oil minister Mohsen Paknejad has resigned and been replaced by the country's top oil executive, the president's office said in a statement on Sunday, amid a blockade on Tehran's oil exports by the United States.

"Following the acceptance of Mohsen Paknejad's resignation, Hamid Bovard", the CEO of the National Iranian Oil Company, "has been appointed as acting Minister of Oil by a decree from the president", said the statement carried by state broadcaster IRIB.

In a news bulletin on the minister's resignation, state television ran an interview with an official from the Iranian presidential office who said Paknejad initially offered his resignation a while ago "due to personal issues" but this was rejected.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian had asked Paknejad to continue in his post but was now accepting his departure as the minister had insisted on leaving, the official added.

He said that Pezeshkian "commended his efforts and sincere service" after accepting his decision to quit.

Saudi-led coalition reaffirms support for Yemen government

The Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen will continue providing operational support to the Yemeni Armed Forces, spokesperson Maj. Gen. Turki Al-Maliki said.

Al-Maliki accused the Houthi militia of attacks and abuses against Yemenis, including forced displacement, starvation and child recruitment.

He also cited Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia and threats to vessels in the southern Red Sea and Bab Al-Mandab Strait.

Al-Maliki said Saudi Arabia would continue taking measures to protect its sovereignty and security, while supporting Yemen until its state institutions are restored and threats to maritime navigation are ended.

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Oil prices diverge as Brent tops $102, Murban hits $110

Oil prices showed mixed movements in early Tokyo trading on Monday, October 5, with Brent crude and Murban rising while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) and natural gas edged lower, according to OilPrice.com taken at 8:37 am Tokyo time.

Brent crude was quoted at $102.60 a barrel, up 39 cents, or 0.38%. Murban crude climbed to $110.80, gaining $1.42, or 1.30%. WTI crude, the US benchmark, slipped 2 cents to $91.09, down 0.02%, while natural gas fell 2.4 cents to $3.011, a decline of 0.79%. Oil prices split as Brent tops $102, Murban hits $110 per barrel on Oct. 5, 2026

‘Era of wasting time over’: Ghalibaf on closed Hormuz

Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said that the strategic Strait of Hormuz will remain "closed" until the US meets seven conditions based on the 14-point June Memorandum of Understanding, as tensions between Tehran and Washington continue to escalate amid the US-Israel conflict with Iran.

Ghalibaf made the remarks in his speech at the Iranian Parliament, saying that the US had recently put forward proposals through a mediator, but that Iran's position remained clear.

Tanker costs soar 43-fold as Hormuz tensions grow

Rates for very large crude carriers, or VLCCs, have surged to an unprecedented $1.3 million per day, according to Poten data. The figure is roughly 43 times the level recorded in early January, when the benchmark Middle East Gulf-to-Far East route cost about $30,000 per day. At that rate, freight adds almost $33 to the cost of each barrel of crude — about 27% of its delivered cost, based on Poten’s estimate of Brent crude near $120 per barrel. In January, freight added only about $1.73 per barrel, or roughly 3% of delivered cost. Poten & Partners is a global leader in shipping and commodity brokerage, advisory services, and business intelligence for the energy and maritime industries.

IDF says Hamas commander, operative killed in Gaza

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that it eliminated a commander in Hamas' military wing and an operative from the group's observation unit in separate strikes in the Khan Younis area of the Gaza Strip.

In a statement on Telegram, the IDF said it struck the Khan Younis area earlier on Sunday and eliminated Muad Gamal Abu Nuseira, a commander in Hamas' military wing.

"Earlier today (Sunday), the IDF struck in the Khan Younis area in the Gaza Strip and eliminated Muad Gamal Abu Nuseira, a commander in Hamas’ military wing," the IDF said.

It stated that in a separate strike on Saturday, it eliminated Mahmoud Ibrahim Dib Alyan, whom it described as a "terrorist" in Hamas' observation unit.

US withdraws all bomber planes from UK airbase: Pentagon

The Pentagon confirmed reports that the US has withdrawn all B-1 bomber planes from Royal Air Force Fairford, the UK airbase where a suspicious incident triggered nearby evacuations.

A statement from a Pentagon official said "we can acknowledge now that all US bombers that were deployed to RAF Fairford have re-deployed to their home stations in the United States."

The statement noted that "operational security precluded us from confirming the movement of our assets and forces in real-time."

Police were called to the base in southwest England last Sunday after a local farmer reported a group of men with several vans engaged in "suspicious" activity.

Multiple explosions reported near tanker off Yemen

The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) has reported an incident about 60 nautical miles south of Al Mukha, Yemen, involving a tanker that sighted multiple explosions nearby.

The vessel’s crew are safe, and no environmental damage has been reported, UKMTO said. Authorities are investigating the incident, with no further details immediately available.

UKMTO has urged vessels operating in the area to exercise caution and remain alert to any suspicious activity.

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US‑Israel war on Iran: Recent developments

Day 219: Trump weighs ‘easy or hard’ option as Iran holds firm

Day 218: Iran's IRGC warns US of 'more lethal' response 

Day 217: US sends 9,000 more troops, third carrier to Middle East

Day 216: US sends 9,000 more troops, third carrier to Mid-East

Day 215: Iran says received US response to its proposal to end war

Day 214: Iran threatens strikes as it awaits US response to Hormuz plan

Day 213: Iran supreme leader says US will be forced out of Middle East

Day 212: Trump expects talks with Iran to resume in coming week

Day 211: US military activity surges around Strait of Hormuz

Day 210: Trump discusses Iran conflict with Xi Jinping

Images from the accident, which occurred between the towns of Vaxjo and Alvesta in the south of the country, showed the bus tipped over on its side next to the road.

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Several ambulances and fire trucks were lined up on the road next to the accident.

"In total, more than 40 people have been affected by the bus accident, of whom around 10 are currently seriously injured," local health authority Region Kronoberg said in a statement.

Police said in a separate statement that it was unclear what had caused the accident and that they were "questioning the driver and passengers."

According to police the accident occurred just after 4.30 pm (1430 GMT).

According to Bloomberg, the figure was calculated using data from the Bloomberg Billionaires Index and represents the total wealth of individuals, along with a handful of family fortunes, who have either left Britain or significantly loosened their connections to the country over the past two years. It does not mean that $160 billion in cash has physically been transferred out of the UK. 

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The scale of the departures has intensified questions over London’s ability to retain wealthy residents, investors and entrepreneurs at a time when tax policy and the wider business climate are under increasing scrutiny.

Bloomberg’s analysis found that the combined wealth represented by those leaving now exceeds that of UK-based individuals still listed in its Billionaires Index. 

Tax changes reshape the equation

The shift has gathered pace since Labour came to power in 2024, following changes to the tax system affecting wealthy residents and continued speculation over further measures.

Among the most significant reforms was the abolition of the long-standing non-domiciled tax regime, which had allowed some wealthy residents to avoid UK tax on overseas wealth for as long as 15 years.

The policy had initially been planned under the previous Conservative government before being implemented by Labour, alongside a shorter preferential regime for foreign income and gains. 

Taxes on inherited assets and profits earned by private-markets dealmakers have also increased, while uncertainty over potential future changes has added to concerns among wealthy residents.

Half of the group identified in Bloomberg’s analysis completed their departures in the weeks before the April 2025 reforms took effect, relocating to destinations including Monaco, Switzerland and the UAE. 

For many of those leaving, mobility is relatively easy.

The group is dominated by foreign-born billionaires and wealthy families whose ties to Britain were sometimes comparatively recent. But concern has grown that the trend may begin to spread to more UK-born financiers and entrepreneurs.

One closely watched departure was hedge fund manager Chris Rokos, a British-born financier and major taxpayer who moved to Greece.

His decision has ignited debate over whether the wealth migration could broaden beyond international residents to people whose personal and business roots in Britain run much deeper. 

UAE among destinations attracting departing wealth

The UAE has emerged among the jurisdictions benefiting from the movement of wealth away from Britain.

Shravin Mittal, son of Indian businessman Sunil Mittal, is among those who have relocated. The 39-year-old, who studied at the University of Bath and later established his investment firm in Britain, is now building a life in the UAE and has opened a branch of his firm, Unbound, there. 

Other wealthy residents have chosen destinations including Italy, Greece, Denmark, Monaco and Switzerland.

Canadian-born investor Ann Kaplan Mulholland, who previously lived in Britain under the non-dom system with her husband, left the country this year and moved to Italy after the couple had bought a £5.5 million medieval castle in Kent in 2023.

The growing range of destinations means there is no single clear winner from London’s loss of wealthy residents.

That reflects both the number of countries now offering incentives to attract global wealth and the difficulty of replicating London’s long-established network of financial services, advisers, investment firms, private banks and luxury businesses.

London still holds considerable financial weight

Despite the scale of the recent departures, London’s position as a global financial centre remains deeply entrenched.

Britain has historically attracted a disproportionately large share of global wealth and has the fifth-largest population of dollar millionaires in the world, with more than 2.4 million, according to UBS data cited by Bloomberg. The city has also weathered earlier predictions of decline.

A decade ago, warnings that Brexit would permanently undermine London’s status as Europe’s leading financial hub were widespread, but many of those forecasts proved overstated. 

Even so, the economic consequences of losing wealthy residents can be significant.

The top 1 per cent of UK earners account for about 27 per cent of all income tax revenue, according to government figures cited by Bloomberg. Their departure can therefore affect both government revenues and spending in sectors ranging from luxury property and restaurants to professional services. 

London luxury market feels the effects

The impact is already visible in parts of the capital’s high-end economy.

Sales of luxury homes have weakened, while buyers in central London are increasingly negotiating discounts to reflect concerns about the investment environment.

Hospitality businesses serving affluent areas such as Mayfair have also pointed to higher taxes and operating costs as factors weighing on revenues. 

Some departing billionaires have also reduced their broader financial exposure to Britain.

A UK investment company linked to Danish billionaire Troels Holch Povlsen, founder of the group behind Jack & Jones, has withdrawn large sums since he returned to Denmark. The company sold a London property business and declared a £57 million dividend this year, its largest in at least a decade.

More departures could follow

Advisers to wealthy families say the movement may not yet have run its course.

Residency and citizenship advisory firm Henley & Partners has reported elevated levels of enquiries, including from UK nationals assessing their options in case taxes rise further. 

Mark Somers, co-founder of a London recruitment firm serving family offices and wealth managers, warned that uncertainty surrounding the next UK budget was prompting wealthy residents to consider alternatives and make contingency plans. 

The government, meanwhile, has been exploring ways to restore Britain’s appeal to high-net-worth individuals.

A confidential survey sent to private wealth advisers asked how welcome their clients felt in the UK and raised possible measures including a new investor visa offering residency for a £5 million investment and an extension of the current four-year foreign income and gains regime. 

Yet London retains advantages that are difficult to replicate elsewhere.

Veteran private-equity investor Rajaa Mekouar, who moved to Britain this year under the new tax regime, observed that the capital still offers attractions extending well beyond politics and taxation, even as uncertainty over possible wealth taxes continues to unsettle investors. 

The bigger question is therefore not whether London will suddenly lose its status as a global wealth centre, but how much erosion it can absorb before the cumulative loss of residents, capital, tax revenue and spending begins to alter the city’s position.

According to NDTV, the fire broke out at about 5.45pm at the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport undertaking’s Anik depot yard.

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A BEST spokesperson told the Press Trust of India that 10 buses had been burnt in the incident.

All of the vehicles were air-conditioned Midi CNG buses operated under a wet-lease arrangement and procured from private operator Daga Group.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing blasts from the area while the fire was burning, with heavy black smoke visible from a considerable distance.

Videos circulating on social media showed flames engulfing buses at the depot as dense smoke rose above the site.

At least four fire engines, five water tankers and other firefighting vehicles were dispatched to the scene, a civic official told PTI.

Fire crews took more than an hour to bring the blaze under control.

No injuries had been reported following the incident.

The cause of the fire was not immediately known.

The relevant authorities in the country granted permits to Israeli carriers to operate flights to Dubai, alongside the flights operated by Etihad Airways, as part of the measures taken as an alternative to the regular scheduled flights affected by the temporary suspension of flydubai, contributing to the provision of travel options for passengers during that period.

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GCAA confirmed that the coordination for the return of passengers whose flights were disrupted and who were left stranded has been completed, and that they have returned to their destinations.

The Authority noted that Etihad Airways continues to operate its flights to Tel Aviv according to the scheduled flights, expanding the travel options available to passengers.

GCAA continues its coordination with all relevant authorities and the airlines concerned in support of the continuity of air transport and passenger service.

Abu Dhabi Police have called on motorists to exercise caution due to reduced visibility during the fog. They are urged to follow changing speed limits displayed on electronic information boards.

The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) warned of a chance of fog forming over some coastal and inland areas from 10.30pm on Monday, October 5, until 9am on Tuesday, October 6.

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Horizontal visibility is expected to deteriorate significantly where fog develops and could disappear altogether in some locations.

The alert comes as humid overnight conditions continue to favour fog and mist across parts of the country.

Rain possible on Tuesday

For Tuesday, the NCM forecast generally fair to partly cloudy weather, with a chance of convective clouds developing during the afternoon over eastern and southern areas.

Those clouds could bring rainfall.

Conditions are expected to become humid again on Tuesday night and into Wednesday morning over some coastal and inland areas, creating another chance of fog or mist.

Winds will be light to moderate, occasionally strengthening enough to raise dust.

They will blow from the south-east to north-west at speeds of 10 to 25km/h, reaching up to 40km/h at times.

Seas remain slight

Conditions in the Arabian Gulf are expected to remain slight.

The first high tide is due at 11.37am, followed by a second at 9.04pm. Low tides are expected at 3.16pm and 4.38am.

The Oman Sea will also remain slight, with high tides at 6.19pm and 7.15am, and low tides at 12.36pm and 12.41am.

The project is being developed by the Jordan-UAE Railway Company through a joint UAE-Jordanian investment of approximately $2.5 billion and includes the development of a 403-kilometre rail network.

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This step reflects the vision and directives of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein aimed at consolidating a sustainable strategic partnership between the two countries, founded on joint action and enhanced frameworks for cooperation and coordination, serving the interests of the two nations’ peoples.

This strategic project, the largest of its kind in the railway sector in Jordan, aims to connect the city of Aqaba with key mining and production sites and the Maan Logistics Zone, providing an integrated system for transporting bulk cargo and containers between ports, production centres and inland logistics facilities, contributing to easing pressure on the road network and supporting the transition towards a more efficient and sustainable transport system.

Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan affirmed the strength and depth of the fraternal relations between the UAE and Jordan, as well as the close cooperation and continued coordination between the two nations across various fields, under the leadership of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein.

He noted that the launch of the Aqaba–Al-Shidiyeh–Maan Railway Project reflects the two countries’ commitment to further strengthening their bilateral partnership through the launch of strategic projects that support shared interests and open new horizons for cooperation across key sectors, fulfilling the aspirations of the two nations’ peoples and contributing to their prosperity, growth and development across various fields.

The project works include the construction of railway tracks, about 55 bridges, six tunnels and associated engineering structures. The network is expected to transport approximately 16 million tonnes of phosphate and potash annually, enhancing the movement of mineral resources from production sites to the ports of Aqaba and enabling Jordanian exports to reach regional and global markets with greater efficiency and competitiveness.

The project’s economic impact will extend across the various sectors and regions it serves. It is expected to create approximately 5,000 jobs in southern Jordan, while reducing phosphate and potash transportation costs by around $40 million annually, thereby enhancing the competitiveness of Jordan’s mining sector.

The project will also create broader opportunities for local companies and the private sector across engineering, construction, maintenance, logistics, technology and supporting industries, while contributing to increased economic activity and supporting development across the southern governorates of the Kingdom.

The Jordan-UAE Railway Company is responsible for developing the project. The company is jointly owned by L’IMAD Holding Company on the UAE side, and the Jordan Phosphate Mines Company, the Government Investments Management Company, the Social Security Investment Fund and the Arab Potash Company on the Jordanian side.

Dr Mohammad Thneibat, Chairman of the Jordan-UAE Railway Company, said: “Today’s groundbreaking marks the beginning of a new chapter in the Jordan-UAE partnership and reflects the vision of the leadership of both countries to translate cooperation and mutual trust into development and investment projects with tangible impact.

“The significance of this project lies in its ability to connect production centres with the ports of Aqaba and regional and global markets, enhance the efficiency of the transport and logistics ecosystem, strengthen the competitiveness of national exports and create long-term value for the economy and society, thereby reinforcing Jordan’s position in regional and international trade.”

Shadi Malak, Vice Chairman of the Jordan-UAE Railway Company and Chief Executive Officer of the Ports and Logistics Platform at L’IMAD Holding, said: “The commencement of implementation of the Aqaba–Al-Shidiyeh–Maan Railway Project today reflects the depth of the investment partnership between the United Arab Emirates and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

This progress is supported by the guidance and follow-up of Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and reflects his commitment to advancing strategic projects and strengthening high-impact partnerships between the two brotherly countries across key sectors.

“We are bringing to this project the extensive expertise Etihad Rail, part of L’IMAD Holding Company, has accumulated in the development and operation of railway networks, and we are working closely with our partners in Jordan to deliver a modern and reliable rail system that supports the Kingdom’s economic and development priorities.”

The ceremony was attended by Sheikh Khalifa bin Tahnoon bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Court; Jassem Bu Ataba Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Department of Finance – Abu Dhabi and Managing Director and Group CEO of L’IMAD; Humaid Obaid Abushibs, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Accountability Authority; Saif Saeed Ghobash, Secretary-General of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council and Chairman of the Office of the Crown Prince; Maryam Eid AlMheiri, Chairperson of Abu Dhabi Media Office and Advisor of Strategic Relations at the Crown Prince Court; Sultan Mohammed Saeed Al Shamsi, UAE Ambassador to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan; Shadi Malak, Vice Chairman of the Jordan-UAE Railway Company and CEO of the Ports and Logistics Platform at L’IMAD Holding; alongside several officials and representatives of the companies responsible for implementing the project from both countries.

Coinciding with celebrations marking World Teachers’ Day, the announcement is in keeping with the support and care Dubai’s leadership has always extended to educators.

The initiative supports Dubai’s Education 33 (E33) strategy, which aims to attract and retain inspiring educators whose expertise enriches students’ learning experiences and strengthens the emirate’s regional and international competitiveness. It also reflects the emirate’s recognition of highly respected educators as essential partners in shaping the future of education, and its commitment to nurturing talent, investing in human capital, and celebrating educators who inspire future generations.

Comprehensive assessment

Since its launch on 5 October 2024, the initiative has received applications from more than 835 educators. Candidates are selected through a comprehensive professional assessment that is fair and transparent, while factoring in academic qualifications, outstanding achievements, contributions to the education sector and wider community, and positive feedback from parents and students.

Eligibility is open to educators working in private early childhood centres, schools, and higher education institutions who demonstrate outstanding academic achievements or creative contributions to education, a proven record of improving educational quality, tangible positive impact and recognition within the education community, and significant contributions to improving student outcomes, including academic progress and the attainment of accredited qualifications.