Middle East News Live: German court rules Berlin not responsible for US drone strike in Yemen

Recent Israeli attacks in Gaza have killed at least 61 people as the United Nations warns of a worsening malnutrition crisis and the looming threat of famine, as per a report in Al Jazeera. Amid the ongoing conflict, the European Union has increased pressure on Israel, demanding more significant action to facilitate an aid deal for the region. The developments come as international bodies continue to monitor the severe humanitarian situation affecting the civilian population in Gaza.

A grenade was thrown and exploded outside a soccer stadium in the central Israeli city of Ramat Hasharon on Tuesday night, according to a report in The Jerusalem Post. The incident, originally reported by N12, involved the device detonating near the stadium premises.

Germany's Constitutional Court has ruled that the government is not legally responsible for a 2012 US drone strike in Yemen that was guided via a base on German soil, according to a report in Deutsche Welle. The case was brought by two Yemeni plaintiffs whose relatives were killed in the strike. The court found that Berlin did not breach its constitutional or international law obligations by allowing the US to use facilities like the Ramstein Air Base as a communication relay for drone operations, rejecting the argument that this made Germany complicit in the attack.

Israel has publicly criticized the United Nations and other international organizations regarding the humanitarian situation in Gaza, according to a report in Fox News. The Israeli government's position is that thousands of pallets of humanitarian aid, which have already entered the territory, are currently sitting idle and have not been distributed. This criticism comes as the UN and other agencies continue to call for Israel to allow more aid into Gaza, with Israel contending that the primary issue is with the aid agencies' failure to distribute the supplies that are already there.

Emirates NBD has given its approval to finance the Dubai Metro Blue Line, a transport project valued at $5.58 billion, as per a report in Arabian Business. The new metro line is designed to connect various communities across the city. According to projections, the Blue Line is expected to serve approximately 350,000 passengers on a daily basis by the year 2040.

A driver in the UAE has been ordered by a court to pay Dh200,000 in 'diyah', or blood money, to the family of a woman who was killed after the driver ran a red light, as per a report in Khaleej Times. The ruling holds the driver responsible for the fatal collision and applies the principle of financial compensation as stipulated within the country's legal framework, which incorporates elements of Islamic law for such cases.

Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen announced on Tuesday that the government plans to cut off electricity and water to the offices of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), as per a report in Middle East Eye. The announcement, made in a post on the social media platform X, is the latest Israeli measure against the UN agency. This follows previous actions, including a ban on UNRWA operating in Israel instituted in late 2023 and the subsequent closure of six UNRWA-run schools in East Jerusalem.

The European Union has announced it will initiate the process of reinstating UN sanctions against Iran if Tehran fails to make tangible progress on containing its nuclear program by August 29, according to a report in The Guardian. Speaking at a meeting of EU foreign ministers, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot stated that France and its partners are prepared to reapply global embargos on arms, banking, and nuclear equipment, which were lifted a decade ago as part of a previous agreement. He emphasized that this action would proceed unless Iran provides a "firm, tangible and verifiable commitment" by the end of August.

The UAE's chocolate market is demonstrating resilience amid global cocoa price fluctuations that saw prices peak above USD 12,500 per metric ton in late 2024 due to poor harvests in West Africa, Gulf Today says in a report. Driven by the price surge, UAE producers have innovated, with a notable success being the 'Dubai chocolate,' a pistachio and tahini-infused bar that has gained worldwide attention. In response to market pressures, which include potential new tariffs, brands are also implementing strategies such as reducing product sizes ('shrinkflation') and introducing smaller packs to maintain profitability. Despite these challenges, demand remains strong, particularly during festive seasons, supporting a positive outlook for the sector.

An ad-hoc coalition of nations, known as the 'Hague Group', convened an 'Emergency Conference of States' in Colombia to urge the international community to take concrete action regarding the conflict in Gaza, according to a report in Al Jazeera. The group is pushing for measures to address what its members describe as a genocide in the territory. This call for action comes amid ongoing legal proceedings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), where the allegation of genocide is under investigation but has not resulted in a final ruling.

The Emir of Kuwait has begun an official visit to France with the stated goal of strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries, Asharq Al-Awsat says in a report. This diplomatic engagement is intended to bolster cooperation across multiple areas, including defense, security, and economic interests. The visit aligns with France's broader strategy to increase its engagement in the Gulf region and with Kuwait's foreign policy of diversifying its international alliances.

A United Nations-backed team responsible for monitoring the human rights situation in the Palestinian territories has announced its resignation, Asharq Al-Awsat says in a report. The team's mandate included documenting potential violations by all parties in the West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem. The resignations occur amid what is described as a challenging and highly politicized environment for international monitors, particularly following the escalation of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict since late 2023.

Abu Dhabi-based International Holding Company (IHC) has acquired UAE fintech firm eFunder and rebranded it as Zelo to provide digital invoice financing for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), according to a report in Arabian Business. The new entity, Zelo, aims to address a significant funding gap for SMEs in the United Arab Emirates, which is estimated at $250 billion. Supported by IHC, Zelo will scale its digital financing solutions, having already deployed over $200 million in funding.

An Abu Dhabi Primary Labour Court has ordered a company to pay Dhs102,209 to an employee who was dismissed after more than 14 years of service, according to a report in Gulf Today. The employee, who joined the company in 2010, filed a lawsuit after being dismissed in the second half of 2024, stating the company had withheld his wages for 10 months. The court's judgment covers the employee's end-of-service gratuity of Dhs87,259, a notice period salary of Dhs11,500, and a vacation allowance of Dhs3,450, enforcing the terms of his employment contract.

Bedouins in Israel living in unrecognized villages are being forced to build their own temporary bomb shelters for protection, according to a report in AP. The report highlights the situation of these communities, which lack state-provided protective infrastructure, compelling residents to take measures into their own hands to create safe spaces.

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan and his Iranian counterpart, Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, held a phone conversation to discuss enhancing bilateral relations for the shared interests of both nations, according to a report in Gulf Today. During the call, the two leaders also reviewed various regional and international issues of mutual concern, with a particular focus on recent developments in the Middle East. Sheikh Mohamed reiterated the UAE's commitment to supporting all initiatives aimed at fostering regional peace and stability for the benefit of all its peoples.

The UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) has warned of rising malnutrition in Gaza, with screenings showing one in ten children is malnourished, according to a report in Gulf Today. UNRWA's Director of Communications, Juliette Touma, stated on Tuesday that rates have increased since the siege tightened four months ago and that the agency is facing critical shortages of medicines and nutritional supplies. Touma noted that food stocks ran out in late April and 60% of essential medicines are depleted since Israeli forces reportedly banned the agency from bringing in aid on March 2. She also described an escalating situation in the occupied West Bank, with severe movement restrictions and rising poverty.

Traffic diversions are now in effect in the Mirdif area of Dubai to accommodate the commencement of construction for the Metro Blue Line project, according to a report in Gulf News. The measures have been put in place to manage traffic flow as work begins on the major new public transport infrastructure.

A movement in Iran has allegedly raised more than $40 million to reward the assassination of U.S. President Donald Trump, Fox News said in a report. The claim originates from the Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI), which stated it had identified the crowdfunding campaign.

US-based Joby Aviation is expanding its manufacturing output after successfully conducting a test flight of its electric air taxi in Dubai, according to a report in Gulf News. The demonstration aligns with Dubai's strategy to integrate advanced air mobility and establish the city as a center for future technology and economic diversification. The corresponding expansion of production capacity in the United States supports US industrial policy goals focused on bolstering domestic manufacturing in advanced technology sectors.

The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has barred 12 private schools from enrolling new students into grades 11 and 12, according to a report in Khaleej Times. The decision follows a government probe into inflation and is intended to ensure that high school grades accurately reflect student performance and the quality of education provided. This regulatory action is part of a broader effort by the department to maintain high standards within the private education sector in the emirate.

A driver in the United Arab Emirates has been ordered by a court to pay a total of Dh51,450 to the company where he was formerly employed, Khaleej Times says in a report. The ruling mandates the repayment of accumulated traffic fines, which included a violation for running a red light, as well as other outstanding financial obligations owed to the company. The legal action was pursued after the man reportedly failed to settle the debt despite multiple requests from his previous employer.

Jon Polin, the father of American-Israeli hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin, has publicly expressed frustration with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government as the most recent truce and hostage negotiations have stalled, The Jerusalem Post said in a report. Polin specifically challenged the administration's narrative, calling on Netanyahu’s office to cease claiming that “military and diplomatic pressure” was solely responsible for the release of 205 hostages. The majority of those hostages were freed during a brokered truce in November 2023 that involved an exchange for Palestinian prisoners, rather than as a direct result of military pressure alone.

An Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldier has taken their own life while on a military base in the Golan Heights, The Jerusalem Post said in a report. The soldier had previously participated in combat operations in Gaza amid the ongoing war with Hamas. This event marks the second reported suicide of an IDF soldier within the current month.

An internal Israeli military investigation into the events of October 7, 2023, has found that the Mop Darom base was overrun by a force of 35 Hamas terrorists, which led to the collapse of the camp's defense, according to a report in The Jerusalem Post. The probe also noted the tenacity and courage of the soldiers from the Golani Brigade and the reinforcements who arrived to assist them during the attack.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has responded to an open letter from Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, labeling it a "full-scale psychological operation," according to a report in The Jerusalem Post. A statement from Khamenei's office characterized the letter as part of a conflict where the primary battlefield is "public perception and the realm of awareness" rather than physical border zones. The response frames the Israeli letter as a deliberate attempt to manipulate public opinion and an act of information warfare.

Abu Dhabi's Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) is initiating a review to address grade inflation and academic inconsistencies across the emirate's private schools, according to a report in Arabian Business. The move, which follows a probe into the private education sector, aims to ensure the integrity and credibility of academic standards and student qualifications. The crackdown will involve scrutinizing assessment practices to align grades with genuine student achievement.

Emirates NBD has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Dubai Centre for Family Businesses to create a new support framework for family-owned enterprises in the emirate, Arabian Business said in a report. Under the agreement, the bank will encourage its family business clients to enroll in leadership development programs organized by the Centre. This initiative, operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, is part of a broader government strategy to ensure the sustainability, growth, and professional governance of family businesses, which are a key pillar of the UAE's non-oil economy.

Saudi Arabia is building up stockpiles of its surplus oil production in a strategic move aimed at addressing future global crises, Asharq Al-Awsat says in a report. The action is seen as a way for the kingdom to enhance its energy security and provide a buffer against market shocks stemming from geopolitical instability and economic uncertainty. This measure involves leveraging Saudi Arabia's significant spare production capacity, allowing it to potentially stabilize oil prices or respond to supply disruptions on the global stage.

Lebanese authorities have officially banned all financial transactions and dealings with a significant financial entity associated with Hezbollah, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. This action is seen as a move to comply with international anti-money laundering regulations and counter-terrorism financing efforts, particularly as Lebanon navigates a severe economic crisis. The ban directly targets Hezbollah's financial infrastructure within the country and aligns with ongoing international pressure and sanctions against the group.

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched a crackdown on unsafe delivery motorcycles in an effort to enhance road safety, according to a report in Gulf News. The move involves stricter enforcement of safety regulations for both riders and their vehicles. This action is a response to public safety concerns arising from the rapid growth of the gig economy and the corresponding increase in delivery services on the city's roads.

Authorities in Dubai have introduced new laws for electric scooter users, establishing specific rules and fines for non-compliance, according to a report in Gulf News. The regulations are part of broader government initiatives aimed at enhancing public safety and managing traffic as new forms of personal mobility become more common. This move aligns with Dubai's strategic goals to develop as a 'smart city' and maintain its reputation as a safe and orderly destination for both residents and tourists.

The government media office in Gaza has accused Israel of killing more than 700 Palestinians in attacks on people waiting for water, calling it a 'systematic thirst war' and a war crime, Gulf Today says in a report. The office stated that Israeli forces have destroyed 112 water filling points and 720 wells, and that a blockade on fuel has paralyzed water and sewage networks, leading to the spread of disease. The report highlights a recent Israeli strike on a water queue in the Nuseirat refugee camp that killed eight people, which Israel's military said was the result of a missile that malfunctioned. UN agencies like OCHA and UNICEF have warned of devastating public health impacts from the lack of clean water, with civilians suffering from skin diseases and diarrhea.

The family of a victim in what is being described as a "shocking shooting" is demanding the death penalty for the perpetrator as a court date for the case looms, according to a report in Gulf News. The case has garnered significant public attention, placing focus on the regional judicial process. In some legal systems in the Middle East, the victim's family can have a direct say in the punishment, including demanding capital punishment or accepting compensation.

Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, a key political rival to President Erdogan, is facing a new trial that his opposition party has condemned as a political crackdown, according to a report in Bloomberg. The proceedings are viewed by critics and Imamoglu's Republican People's Party (CHP) as part of a broader judicial pressure campaign aimed at sidelining the popular mayor. Imamoglu, who previously faced a conviction in 2022, is considered a potential future presidential candidate. A guilty verdict in the current case could lead to a political ban, effectively removing a significant challenger to President Erdogan's ruling party.

Dnata has deployed a fleet of driverless, electric baggage tractors at Dubai World Central (DWC) airport, according to a report in Arabian Business. The introduction of the autonomous vehicles follows a collaborative period of more than a year involving dnata, vehicle manufacturer TractEasy, Dubai Airports, and the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) to ensure safety and operational integration.

Saudi Arabia's annual inflation rate remained unchanged at 2.3% in June 2025, reflecting stability in both consumer and wholesale prices, according to a report in Arabian Business. This consistent inflation figure is a key economic metric for the country as it continues to implement its Vision 2030 economic diversification strategy and invest in large-scale national projects.

The UAE has achieved a top-20 global ranking for mental health among its population aged over 55, but faces a significant challenge with a growing wellbeing crisis affecting younger adults, according to a report in Arabian Business. The findings are from the 2024 Mental State of the World Report, which indicates a stark generational divide in mental wellbeing within the country. While the older demographic recorded one of the world's highest mental health scores, the report points to increasing pressures and mental health issues for the younger generation.

One in ten children screened at clinics run by the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) in Gaza is suffering from malnutrition, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The severe humanitarian crisis is described as a direct result of ongoing military operations, restrictions on the entry of aid, and the collapse of essential services. The malnutrition is further exacerbated by a lack of clean water, inadequate sanitation, and limited access to medical facilities, which prevent proper nutrient absorption. The situation has also been impacted by a funding crisis for UNRWA after several key donor countries previously suspended financial support, hampering the agency's ability to provide services.

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is testing autonomous vehicles in China as part of its preparations for a transport challenge with a $3 million prize, according to a report in Arabian Business. The initiative is linked to the upcoming 4th Edition of the Dubai World Congress for Self-Driving Transport, which is scheduled for 2025. The tests in China are a key step in the lead-up to the global event focused on autonomous mobility.

Saudi Arabia's annual inflation rate remained stable at 2.3% in June 2025, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. This stability in consumer price increases comes amid the country's extensive economic diversification efforts under the Vision 2030 plan, which includes significant government spending on various mega-projects. Maintaining a controlled inflation rate is a key indicator of the economy's ability to manage large-scale capital injections without overheating, which is relevant for maintaining investor confidence and social stability.

A Filipino expatriate residing in Dubai has won a significant prize from the Big Ticket raffle draw after consistently participating for 13 years, Gulf News said in a report. The win marks a notable personal success for the long-term resident within the expatriate community in the UAE.

Motorists in the United Arab Emirates are experiencing increased stress from traffic congestion, particularly in major cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, according to a report in Gulf News. The issue is attributed to the country's rapid population growth, fueled by its economic diversification strategy which attracts a large expatriate workforce. This rapid urbanization is straining existing road networks, with the pace of development often outstripping even the UAE's continuous and substantial investments in new infrastructure projects and public transport.

A dowry case has been registered in India against the husband of a 21-year-old Indian woman from Kerala who died in Sharjah, as per a report in Khaleej Times. The woman allegedly died by suicide after the death of her infant child. The legal action in India highlights the extraterritorial jurisdiction of Indian law in dowry-related cases, allowing for prosecution of Indian nationals even when the alleged harassment and subsequent death occur abroad.

Saudi Arabia secured a dominant position in the Middle East and North Africa's venture capital landscape, attracting $860 million in the first half of 2025, according to a report in Arabian Business. This amount represents 56% of all VC funding in the MENA region during the period and was achieved through 114 separate deals. The funding total for the first six months of the year has already surpassed the amount Saudi Arabia raised in all of 2024.

The appointment of Jorge Jesus as a new football coach for a top Saudi club, an event highlighted by a welcome from player Cristiano Ronaldo, is part of a larger trend in the region, according to a report in Gulf News. Analysts and experts frame this high-profile signing not merely as a sports development but as a strategic move aligned with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. This national framework aims to reduce the kingdom's economic reliance on oil by investing heavily in sectors like entertainment and sports. The move is also seen as an element of the nation's soft power strategy to enhance its international image, a practice that critics have sometimes labeled 'sports washing' to divert attention from other issues.

For many tenants in Dubai, renewing an existing lease is currently more affordable than signing a new one, according to a report in Gulf News. This trend indicates a stabilization in the city's real estate market following a period of rapid post-pandemic rent hikes. The stability is partly attributed to regulations from Dubai's Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA), whose rent index helps prevent arbitrary increases and provides a more predictable market for the city's large expatriate population.

Six new electric vehicles have been introduced at Dubai World Central (DWC) with the stated goal of improving operational efficiency and safety, as per a report in Gulf News. The vehicles will be used within the major logistics and aviation hub, which includes Al Maktoum International Airport. This initiative is presented as a step supporting the UAE's broader strategic goals, including its 'Net Zero by 2050' commitment and efforts toward economic diversification.

Yemen's internationally recognized government, the Presidential Leadership Council (PLC), has urged the United Nations to end its mission tasked with monitoring the Hodeidah Agreement, as per a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The UN Mission to support the Hodeidah Agreement (UNMHA) was established following the 2018 Stockholm Agreement to oversee a ceasefire and the redeployment of forces from the key port city of Hodeidah and other nearby ports. The PLC's request specifically calls for the termination of this UN oversight role, which was created to facilitate humanitarian access and de-escalate conflict in the critical Red Sea port area.

Dubai's real estate market recorded transactions worth $46.5 billion in the second quarter of 2025, according to a report in Arabian Business. The Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) community was identified as the highest performing area, registering nearly 5,000 individual property transactions during the period.

A collaboration between the Saudi-based Global Center for Combating Extremist Ideology (Etidal) and the messaging platform Telegram resulted in the removal of 30 million extremist posts during the second quarter of 2025, Asharq Al-Awsat says in a report. The joint initiative targeted extremist propaganda and communication channels on the platform as part of a broader effort to counter online radicalization.

The Israeli military has carried out strikes against Hezbollah targets located in eastern Lebanon, as per a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The action represents a significant escalation, targeting areas deeper within Lebanese territory beyond the usual southern border region. These strikes are part of the near-daily exchanges of fire that have occurred since October 2023. Hezbollah states its actions are in solidarity with Hamas in Gaza, while Israel maintains its strikes are a response to aggression and are aimed at degrading the group's military capabilities.

Heavy seasonal rains in Sudan's capital, Khartoum, have flooded streets and exposed numerous decomposed bodies, who are victims of the ongoing civil war, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The bodies are reported to be casualties of the protracted conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This development highlights a severe public health crisis and the complete collapse of municipal services in the war-torn city, as the intense fighting has prevented the proper collection and burial of the dead.

Dubai-based Gulf Navigation Holding (GulfNav) has successfully raised $136.15 million through an oversubscribed mandatory convertible bond (MCB) offering, according to a report in Arabian Business. The capital raised is a key component of the financing for the company's planned $870 million acquisition of Brooge Energy.

The United Arab Emirates has introduced its 'Work Bundle' initiative, a unified platform designed to simplify procedures for private sector companies and their employees, according to a report in Gulf News. The new system consolidates services from multiple government bodies, including the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, into a single application process. This integration aims to significantly reduce the number of required documents and cut the processing time for work permits and residency visas. While the platform streamlines administrative steps for eligible applicants, it does not alter the underlying criteria for obtaining employment visas or the sponsorship-based nature of foreign employment in the country.

Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, attended a reception for France's National Day (Bastille Day) in Abu Dhabi on Monday evening, Gulf Today said in a report. The event, hosted by French Ambassador to the UAE Nicolas Niemtchinow at the Emirates Palace, was also attended by Minister of State Noura AlKaabi and members of the diplomatic corps. In a speech, Ambassador Niemtchinow praised the depth of the distinguished historical and strategic relations between the French Republic and the United Arab Emirates.

A growing trend of solo driving in the UAE is contributing to increased traffic congestion and road hostility, with a recent survey indicating eight out of ten motorists frequently witness aggressive behavior, according to a report in Khaleej Times. The issue is linked to the nation's rapid, car-centric urban development and a high reliance on private vehicles, despite government investment in public transportation. This increase in single-occupant cars makes roads busier and is perceived by residents as fostering a more hostile driving environment, presenting challenges to the UAE's sustainability goals and efforts to improve urban quality of life.

The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) has projected robust oil demand for the third quarter, covering July through September, a period that typically includes peak summer travel consumption in the Northern Hemisphere, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. This forecast is issued amidst ongoing voluntary production cuts by several members of the wider OPEC+ alliance, which are designed to stabilize global oil markets. The positive demand outlook signals confidence in global economic activity despite ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and disruptions to shipping in the Red Sea.

The Federation of UAE Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FCCI) met with a commercial delegation from the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh in Dubai on Tuesday to discuss potential economic cooperation, according to a report in Emirates 24/7. The meeting focused on exploring prospects for joint ventures and strengthening business ties between the UAE and the Indian state, in line with broader efforts to enhance economic partnerships between the two countries.

Abu Dhabi's sovereign wealth fund, Mubadala, has joined a consortium to acquire German energy efficiency firm Techem for $7.9 billion, according to a report in Arabian Business. Techem provides devices and services to the property industry to help improve energy efficiency, reduce consumption, and lower costs and CO2 emissions. The German-based company currently has 62 million devices in service, and the acquisition marks a significant investment by the UAE fund into the green technology sector.

Tributes are being paid across the United Arab Emirates following the death of an Indian national from Kerala, who was widely recognized as a 'blood donation hero' for his significant humanitarian contributions, Gulf News said in a report. The man was a prominent figure in community welfare, known for organizing and participating in numerous blood donation drives over many years. His passing has prompted an outpouring of condolences from residents and community groups, highlighting the impact of his selfless work within the large expatriate community in the UAE.

China has launched an online visa application system in the United Arab Emirates, digitizing the submission and processing for travelers, according to a report in Gulf News. The new system is designed to improve efficiency and convenience for Emirati citizens and residents applying for Chinese visas for purposes such as business or tourism.

Twin students Bisan and Bilsan Kouka won the champion title at the Tunisian level of the ninth Arab Reading Challenge, which saw 128,666 students from 2,100 schools compete, according to a report in Gulf Today. The closing ceremony in Tunis was attended by Tunisia’s Minister of Education, Noureddine Nouri, and UAE Ambassador to Tunisia, Dr. Iman Ahmed Al Salami. In the People of Determination category, Rahma Bouden secured the top title. The UAE-led initiative, organized by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives Foundation, reportedly attracted over 32.2 million students from 50 countries for its ninth edition.

An explosion on Tuesday suspended operations at the Sarang oil field in Iraq's autonomous Kurdistan region, as per a report in Gulf Today. The US operator, HKN Energy, confirmed the blast occurred at one of its production facilities but reported no casualties. The source of the explosion was not immediately clear. The incident is the latest in a recent series of drone and rocket attacks in Kurdistan, including strikes a day earlier on the Khurmala oil field. These events occur amid heightened tensions between the federal government in Baghdad and the regional government in Arbil over oil exports and energy contracts.

A significant hiring surge is underway in the Middle East, particularly within Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, as national economic diversification plans like Saudi Vision 2030 fuel the development of high-tech industries, according to a report in Gulf News. This growth is part of a broader strategy to reduce reliance on hydrocarbon revenues and compete globally for talent and investment. The increased hiring is concentrated in sectors such as technology, logistics, and manufacturing, with many of the new initiatives being state-funded and largely staffed by an expatriate workforce.

Dubai-based Emirates has acquired four Airbus A380 aircraft for $180 million from Nimrod Air Three, Arabian Business said in a report. The airline had already been operating these specific planes for the past 12 years under a lease agreement. The transaction involves aircraft that are part of the world's largest A380 fleet, which is operated by the state-owned carrier.

Christian clerics have accused Israeli settlers in the West Bank of attacking Christian holy sites, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The accusations from the religious leaders, who are custodians of the sites, come amid a climate of heightened tensions in the region. This development aligns with reports from human rights organizations noting a rise in settler violence against Palestinians and their property, including religious places, in the Israeli-occupied territory.

Four new bouts have been added to the UFC Fight Night card scheduled for July 26 at Abu Dhabi's Etihad Arena, according to a report in Gulf Today. The new matchups include Emirati fighter Mohammed Yahya facing Steven Nguyen, a welterweight bout between Muslim Salikhov and Carlos Leal, a women's strawweight fight featuring Amanda Ribas against Tabatha Ricci, and a bantamweight clash between Da’Mon Blackshear and Davey Grant. The event's main card is headlined by a middleweight fight between former champion Robert Whittaker and Reinier de Ridder. This will be the 21st UFC event held in Abu Dhabi since 2010.

The Salik electronic toll system in the UAE has been expanded to include parking payments at select locations, Gulf News said in a report. This development allows motorists with a Salik tag on their vehicle to have parking fees automatically deducted from their prepaid account, similar to how the system functions for road tolls. The rollout is currently limited to specific spots, indicating a phased implementation of the new payment feature.

An Indian expatriate working as a bank consultant in Dubai has lost Dh100,000 in a sophisticated online trading scam conducted via WhatsApp, as per a report in Khaleej Times. The victim was reportedly lured into the scheme with promises of high returns, supported by fake profit screenshots and forged certificates. To make the investment, the expat borrowed the money, ultimately falling prey to the fraudulent operation.

Saudi Arabia's Museums Commission has officially invited researchers, specialists, and institutions to participate in the 12th Red Sea Conference, as per a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The announcement is part of the Kingdom's broader cultural development initiatives under the Vision 2030 framework, which aims for economic diversification and social reform. The conference itself is focused on the topics of museums and cultural heritage, seeking to promote academic and artistic exchange within the sector.

Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has strongly denied an allegation made by media personality Tucker Carlson suggesting that convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein was an agent for Mossad, Israel's national intelligence agency, The Jerusalem Post says in a report. Bennett labeled the claim "categorically false" in a public statement. In response to the denial, Carlson extended an invitation to Bennett for an interview to discuss the matter further. The allegation, which taps into conspiracy theories, was swiftly countered by the former Israeli leader.

Archaeologists in Jordan have discovered the ancient settlement of Tharais, identified as a Christian community from the Byzantine period, according to a report in The Jerusalem Post. The site's unearthing confirms the location of the historically referenced settlement within the territory of modern-day Jordan, a region that was part of the Eastern Roman Empire.

The government of the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh is offering a subsidy of Dh66,000 per trip to encourage airlines to restart direct flight services between Indore and Dubai, according to a report in Khaleej Times. This proposal comes nearly a year after Air India Express discontinued the route, which had originally launched in March 2023. The incentive aims to re-establish the crucial air link connecting the central Indian state with the key Middle Eastern hub.

An Iraqi village that was submerged for decades has reappeared due to declining water levels in the Mosul Dam lake, according to a report in AP. The re-emergence of the settlement, located in the reservoir of Iraq's largest dam, is a direct result of a significant drop in water levels. The event, reported on July 14, 2025, highlights the severe water scarcity impacting the country.

Israeli teenagers whose high school years have been defined by the war that began with the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack are now facing the mandatory military draft with a strong resolve to fight and diminished optimism about peace, The Washington Post says in a report. This generation's outlook has been shaped by the ongoing conflict and broader regional instability. According to the report, discussions within their high schools about the humanitarian toll of the war in Gaza are rare.