Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Bahrain, have warned the US and Gaza plan architects that the effort to end the war is at risk due to mediators’ perceived leniency towards Hamas. These warnings stem from Hamas’ post-ceasefire actions, such as refusing to disarm and engaging in violence. Saudi Arabia has signaled it will reduce its involvement and skip reconstruction efforts without decisive US action and a change in the mediators’ approach. The Emiratis have taken a similar stance. The Saudis are expected to meet with Trump, and the outcome of this meeting may be significant.
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Following the shooting of Kirk, certain right-wing figures are exploiting the event to advance their agendas, falsely portraying it as a coordinated attack by the left. High-profile individuals, including Elon Musk, have amplified this narrative, even labeling the act as terrorism perpetrated by a transgender cell. Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene has further stoked the flames, calling for a “civil dissolution” and urging her followers to put their faith in God. While simultaneously criticizing Republicans, Greene’s response reveals the use of the shooting to push a far-right political agenda.
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The United Arab Emirates is currently negotiating a trade agreement with Canada, according to the UAE’s economy minister. This partnership, which is similar to agreements already established with over two dozen other countries, aims to double bilateral trade. The UAE hopes to boost trade with Canada from its current value of approximately C$3.5 billion to C$7 billion ($5 billion).
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A recent New York Times investigation revealed that the Trump administration granted the United Arab Emirates access to advanced AI chips shortly after receiving a $2 billion investment in a cryptocurrency startup founded by members of the Trump family. The report highlighted concerns from national security experts about sharing these chips, crucial for AI dominance, while ethics lawyers noted the deals violated established norms. Despite denials of any explicit connection, the timing of the deals raised suspicions of corruption and weak negotiation tactics. Political observers also expressed shock, with some considering the actions a major public corruption scandal, prompting further questions about the ethical implications.
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The Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, is currently considering formally annexing a significant portion of the occupied West Bank. Such a move, widely considered a breach of international law, risks inciting outrage throughout the Arab world. Annexation could also undermine President Trump’s efforts to achieve peace in the region. However, it might provide Netanyahu with a political advantage among Israeli voters.
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A high-ranking UAE official warned Israel that annexing the West Bank would be a “red line” that would undermine regional integration and the two-state solution. This warning was issued in the context of a major ministerial consultation in Israel regarding potential annexation, and in response to Western countries’ plans to recognize a Palestinian state. The Emirati official’s message echoed a similar warning prior to the Abraham Accords, and emphasized the strategic importance of maintaining ties. The UAE hopes to prevent the Abraham Accords from being derailed and reiterated the possibility of normalizing relations with Israel if it commits to a pathway to a future Palestinian state.
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Khitam, a seasoned journalist with over three decades of experience, currently serves as Chief News Editor, focusing on UAE, GCC, and Arab affairs. Beginning her career as a translator, she steadily advanced into editorial roles. Her responsibilities include monitoring breaking news in the UAE and Arab regions to ensure timely and accurate dissemination. A childhood encounter with Margaret Thatcher, where she shared her family’s displacement, shaped her dedication to journalism and highlighting stories impacted by regional conflicts.
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Sudanese MiG-29 Shoots Down Emirati Transport Over Darfur With 40+ Colombian Mercenaries Onboard. Alright, let’s unpack this incredibly complex and unfortunately common situation. The core of the matter is a Sudanese MiG-29 fighter jet taking down an Emirati transport aircraft over the Darfur region. What makes this immediately noteworthy is the reported presence of over forty Colombian mercenaries on board.
Sudanese MiG-29 Shoots Down Emirati Transport Over Darfur With 40+ Colombian Mercenaries Onboard. The immediate reaction, depending on your perspective, likely ranges from grim acceptance to outright relief. The scenario is undeniably fraught with geopolitical implications, hinting at a proxy war playing out in the heart of Africa, with various external actors vying for influence and resources.… Continue reading
A British teenager, Marcus Fakana, imprisoned in Dubai for having sex with a 17-year-old girl, has been released and returned to the UK after receiving a royal pardon. Fakana’s imprisonment stemmed from a “holiday romance” in the UAE where the age of consent is 18. The girl’s mother reported him after discovering messages between them. Detained in Dubai confirmed the release, noting Fakana’s relief and his family’s joy. The campaign group also highlighted the strictness of the law and the importance of parental awareness regarding UAE laws.
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Concluding his Middle Eastern tour in the UAE, President Trump received a small amount of Murban crude oil as a gift from Sultan Al Jaber. The president jokingly expressed his disappointment at the gift’s size, despite acknowledging its high quality. This presentation occurred during a business forum at Abu Dhabi’s Qasr Al Watan palace, also attended by UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The visit included a significant Boeing-Etihad Airways deal announced earlier, totaling over $14.5 billion.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood