US airstrikes in Syria amid Middle East tensions, Why the F&B industry is poised for growth, and more, Gulf News Editors comment on October 27 top news

US AIRSTRIKES IN SYRIA AMID MIDDLE EAST TENSIONS: US fighter jets have conducted targeted airstrikes on weapons and ammunition facilities in Syria this morning. Per the US, this action was taken in response to recent attacks on American forces by militias. There is mounting concern that the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict could potentially escalate across the broader Middle East region. Over the past week, US and coalition troops have faced a series of hostile encounters, with at least 19 reported attacks in Iraq and Syria. In this increasingly volatile scenario, the significance of achieving a ceasefire in Gaza becomes all the more apparent. The potential for any misstep or miscalculation to trigger a more extensive and dangerous conflict underscores the urgency of the situation. (By Sadiq Shaban, Opinion Editor)

F&B INDUSTRY POISED FOR GROWTH: The culinary landscape in the UAE is currently undergoing an exciting transformation. High-end dining establishments are experiencing a surge in popularity, characterized by robust reservations and heightened investor interest. Dubai's initiative to promote "support local, savour global" encourages patrons to place orders directly with restaurants, offering mutual benefits. Mid-range F&B establishments are also displaying resilience despite the challenge of escalating rental costs. As the UAE approaches cooler weather and year-end celebrations, the F&B industry seems poised for growth, reflecting patrons' growing preference for unique dining experiences. (By Nivetha Dayanand, Web Editor)

SAFETY IS KEY: E-scooters have swiftly become a common sight on the streets of the UAE, offering residents and visitors an affordable and convenient mode of transport. However, with their rising popularity, it has become increasingly important for riders to be aware of and adhere to the rules and regulations governing their use. Not only does this ensure the safety of e-scooter riders, but it also helps protect other road users. Accidents and fines related to e-scooters and electric bicycles serve as a stark reminder of the importance of adhering to rules. In the past eight months alone, Dubai has witnessed five tragic deaths and 32 accidents involving e-scooters and cycles. These numbers should prompt all e-scooter enthusiasts to take safety seriously. It is high time for e-scooter riders to educate themselves on the rules and regulations in place to prevent such incidents and financial penalties. (By Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor)

DO MOVIES HAVE THE POWER TO BRING ABOUT CHANGE? Every few years, a movie comes along that’s hugely inspiring and director Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s latest film ‘12th fail’, starring an on-point Vikrant Massey, is one of them. Releasing today in the UAE cinemas, the stirring tale of an underprivileged young man from Chambal in Madhya Pradesh who decides to face the highly competitive examination to enter into the Indian Police Service. He’s the quintessential underdog whose struggle underlines the broken education system in his country. It’s also a searing portrait of caste and Hindi/English bias that exists. Bollywood may be known for its unrealistic plotlines and song-dance spectacles, but a movie like ‘12th fail’ offsets that belief. And credit is due to an actor like Massey for taking on a role that doesn’t have blockbuster written all over it. While it’s too early to predict its box-office results, the film has graduated with honours on the content front. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)