From the Editors: Thank you, UAE

THANK YOU UAE: As the UAE rings in the 49th National Day tomorrow, there is no better occasion than this perhaps to express one’s gratitude to this great country and its visionary leadership. Where in the world would you find a nation that has achieved so much in such a short span of time? And the ease with which feat after feat is accomplished feels nothing short of a miracle. Whether it’s the state-of-the-art roads and bridges that spring up as we go about our daily grind or the impeccable law and order that we take for granted, there are many things to be grateful for. [COMMENT BY: Sharmila Dhal, UAE Editor]

ENDING NUCLEAR INSPECTIONS WILL RAISE MORE DOUBTS ABOUT IRAN’S INTENTIONS: After the top Iranian nuclear scientist was assassinated on November 27, lawmakers in the country have called for ending UN inspections of Iran’s nuclear facilities. Iran’s secretive nuclear programme has given rise to legitimate concerns in countries in the region and beyond. To add to this, the country’s extensive ballistic missiles programme has raised alarm bells in regional capitals, given Tehran’s record of proliferation and interference in the internal affairs of its neighbours. The UN is right to say that Iran has a large nuclear programme that requires the biggest efforts in terms of inspection. Ending them is not an option. [COMMENT BY: Omar Shariff, International Editor]

STAY VIGILANT AS WE WAIT FOR THE COVID-10 VACCINE: As we move closer to a desperately anticipated COVID-19 vaccine, US officials have warned the public to be wary of criminal activity, false cures and extortion schemes. Many criminals will be trying to make a quick buck off unsuspecting people who have waited for a year for an end to the pandemic. Earlier this year as cases exploded, some hospitals and governments in parts of the world grew short on masks, gloves and other protective gear after tricksters preyed on citizens to hand over money for goods they never received. There will be attempts at cheating again and we need to be vigilant. When in doubt, ask around, rather than fall for an offer that is too good to be true. [COMMENT BY: Alex Abraham, Senior Associate Editor]

A PREMIER LEAGUE SEASON LIKE NO OTHER: Tottenham are top of the table, West Ham United are up to fifth: Regardless of the coronavirus pandemic and empty stadiums, this is truly an English Premier League season like no other. Neither Manchester team is in the top eight, Arsenal are languishing down in 14th place, behind both Newcastle and Leeds United. Only Liverpool, the defending champions, are showing some semblance of normality as they sit second behind Spurs, the perennial failures in the Premier League. Can they keep it up this time around? Unlikely, as Liverpool look to be getting into their stride and have the depth to go all the way once again. [COMMENT BY: Matthew Smith, Sports Editor]

Millie Bobby Brown, the breakout star of ‘Stranger Things’, recently posted a tearful message on social media urging people to respect her privacy. She was accosted by a girl who wanted a video of the actress while she was out shopping with her mother. “I just wish people were more respectful,” Brown said. In this age of social media and the ability to take videos and pictures at the drop of a hat, it’s imperative that the rights of others must be respected. How would you feel if someone stuck a camera in your face without permission? [COMMMENT BY: Jennifer Barretto, Assistant Editor – Features]