Israel’s Netanyahu fires defense chief Gallant

The Israeli military confirmed that over 100 commando soldiers were flown into Syria in September to destroy an underground missile factory funded by Iran in the Masyaf area, resulting in the deaths of 27 people. The facility was equipped to manufacture precision-guided missiles for Hezbollah and other Iranian proxies, with components sourced from Iran. Military chief Herzi Halevi stated that the raid was part of a series of missions across the Middle East to disrupt...

Dubai Culture has launched Dubai Art Season 2025, themed 'Take a Walk on the Art Side,' from 4 January – 20 April, showcasing various artistic festivals and activities. The season includes events like Al Marmoom: Film in the Desert, Al Quoz Arts Fest, Emirates Airline Festival of Literature, Sikka Art and Design Festival, and Art Dubai, emphasizing Dubai's cultural vibrancy and global artistic connections. The season aims to enhance creativity, support talent, and enrich Dubai's...

Syria's top diplomat expressed hope for improved relations with Saudi Arabia during the first foreign visit of Syria's new rulers, emphasizing a desire to strengthen ties and open a new chapter in their history. The delegation, led by Assaad al-Shibani, was received by Saudi officials, signaling a potential shift in Saudi-Syrian relations following years of conflict and regional isolation. The visit comes amid efforts to rebuild Syria's economy and infrastructure after years of civil war,...

The Palestinian Authority has suspended broadcasts by Al Jazeera across the Palestinian territories, citing "inciting content" and violations of laws. The decision includes freezing activities of the network and its office in Palestine, as well as journalists and employees. This move has been condemned by militant groups Hamas and Islamic Jihad, amidst tensions with the Fatah movement and clashes between Palestinian security forces and militants in Jenin, which the network has covered extensively. Full Article

The Palestinian Authority is engaged in deadly clashes with militants in the West Bank, aiming to showcase its control over post-war Gaza and assert its dominance. This confrontation with the Jenin Battalion, affiliated with Hamas and Islamic Jihad, is seen as a crucial test for the PA, as it tries to prove its ability to maintain security in the region. The PA's actions come amidst escalating tensions with Hamas, fears of intra-Palestinian violence, and strategic...

In 2024, the UAE's stock markets, including the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange and the Dubai Financial Market, experienced significant growth in market cap and trading volumes, driven by a strong economy, foreign investments, and IPOs. The combined market cap of both markets exceeded AED3.905 trillion, with the ADX reaching AED2.998 trillion and the DFM rising to AED906.912 billion. Trading value surpassed AED449 billion, with over 142 billion shares traded throughout the year, solidifying the UAE's...