COVID-19 restrictions relaxed and Iraq has a new government, our editors comment on the top stories of October 29

COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS RELAXED BUT DON'T LOWER YOUR GUARD: Abu Dhabi has scrapped the need for EDE and thermal screening at entry points to its commercial, hospitality, event and tourism facilities in a further relaxation of precautionary measures. However, visitors are still required to present a valid Al Hosn Green Pass in order to gain entry. The EDE and thermal scanning were an added layer of rapid checks implemented in Abu Dhabi to ensure the safety of residents during the Covid-19 pandemic. Amid a falling number of COVID-19 infections, the UAE has gradually been relaxing precautionary measures. Nevertheless, residents should not lower their guard and must continue to take precautions to ensure safety of their health. [COMMENT BY: Ashfaq Ahmed, Senior Assistant Editor]

IRAQ HAS NEW GOVERNMENT, BUT CAN IT DELIVER ON PROMISES? After a yearlong political stalemate, Iraq now has a government. The Cabinet headed by Prime Minister Mohammad Shia Al Sudani is the first since 2005 that does not include members from the bloc of a powerful Shiite cleric Moqtada Al Sadr. Al Sudani has promised to modify the election law within three months and organise elections within a year, in an apparent response to Sadr’s demands. The new prime minister has also said he will urgently work on policies that affect the lives of citizens. The government faces major challenges in terms of reforms, combating corruption, climate change and unemployment. But without the support of a crucial faction - that of Sadr — can the government deliver? Only time will tell. [COMMENT BY: N.R. Stephen, Senior Associate Editor]

CHOOSING HER OWN PATH: Pop star and entrepreneur Rihanna has had a busy few years — and very little had to do with her music career. She worked on her beauty brand, was declared a National Hero of Barbados and had a baby. However, fans have been clamouring to hear from her. Well, she has delivered with a new song in ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’. It’s a grand return to the music business that has missed her artistry. However, her non-music path has been commendable. Rihanna didn’t listen to popular opinion about what she should do. Instead she forged her own business and grew her empire in other ways. [COMMENT BY: Jennifer Barretto, Assistant Editor - Features]

WALKER, PHILLIPS OUT FOR MAN CITY, COULD MAKE ENGLAND WORLD CUP SQUAD: Injured England duo Kyle Walker and Kalvin Phillips could be fit for the Qatar World Cup but are unlikely to play for Manchester City until after the tournament. Right back Walker has been out with a groin injury while centre midfielder Phillips has had shoulder surgery. City boss Pep Guardiola says the pair have been recovering well however they will not be available for today’s Premier League clash against Leicester or the Champions League match next week against Sevilla. They will also miss the FA Cup third round tie against Chelsea and their last Premier League match against Brentford before the league comes to a halt to accommodate the World Cup. 26-year-old Phillips has only made three appearances since his £45 million move from Leeds United. His last was on 14 September against Borussia Dortmund while 32-year-old Walker last played against Manchester United on 2 October. It would be a major boost for England coach Gareth Southgate if the pair were to make it on the plane to Qatar for the tournament which begins on 20 November. [COMMENT BY: Imran Malik, Assistant Sports Editor]