150 artisans, 11 months of work, one of Islam's most revered traditions
Dubai: The Holy Kaaba was draped in a new Kiswa on Tuesday as Saudi Arabia marked the beginning of the Islamic New Year, continuing a centuries-old tradition that combines religious significance with one of the most intricate forms of Islamic craftsmanship. The replacement of the black silk coverin»»»
Kuwait’s highest court issues final ruling in Sheikh Talal case
Dubai: Kuwait’s Court of Cassation has sentenced Sheikh Talal Al Khaled, former interior minister, to three years in prison with hard labour and imposed a fine of KD3,000 after ruling in two high-profile public spending cases involving the Ministries of Interior and Defence. The court ordered the s»»»
Saudi film club celebrates first anniversary with screening of adventurer’s documentary
RIYADH: The Saudi Cinerama Club celebrated its first anniversary on Monday with a special screening of Badr Al-Shibani’s “Seven Summits” documentary at the Sard Cultural Center in Riyadh. “Seven Summits” details Al-Shibani’s journey as he conquers the highest peak on each of the world’s seven conti»»»
Mixed emotions ahead of Haiti vs. Brazil for dually aligned fans headed to the World Cup game
PHILADELPHIA, USA: Like many other Haitians, Peguy Joseph is a longtime superfan of Brazil, the world’s greatest soccer power. In a few days, though – for the first time in his life – he won’t root for the Brazilians. He has a World Cup ticket to see them play, in a wildly improbable matchup, again»»»
Egypt promotes African health sovereignty and medical tourism at Africa Health ExCon
Egypt’s Health Minister Khaled Abdel Ghaffar said achieving health sovereignty in Africa has become a strategic necessity rather than a choice, calling for stronger and more self-reliant healthcare systems while maintaining effective international partnerships, during the fifth edition of Africa He»»»
UAE foils drug trafficking plot, arrests 23 suspects
UAE authorities have foiled a major drug trafficking plot, arresting 23 suspects and seizing significant quantities of narcotics in a nationwide coordinated operation. The operation, overseen by the Federal Narcotics Prosecution and the National Anti-Narcotics Authority, was carried out in coordina»»»
Municipality Ministry holds workshop on updated villa and mansion design standards
Doha: The Ministry of Municipality (MoM), represented by the Building Permit Complex Department, on Tuesday organized a workshop on updating requirements for planning and designing villas and mansions. The move is part of the Ministry's efforts to strengthen engagement with its partners and awarene»»»
Saudi film club celebrates first anniversary with screening of adventurer’s documentary
RIYADH: The Saudi Cinerama Club celebrated its first anniversary on Monday with a special screening of Badr Al-Shibani’s “Seven Summits” documentary at the Sard Cultural Center in Riyadh. “Seven Summits” details Al-Shibani’s journey as he conquers the highest peak on each of the world’s seven conti»»»
SpaceX agrees to buy AI startup Cursor for $60 billion - UPI.com
Spectators watch the screens in Times Square showing visuals of Elon Musk and SpaceX branding at the Nasdaq MarketSite Exchange in Times Square on Friday. Elon Musk celebrated the Nasdaq opening bell Friday as SpaceX prepared to start trading publicly, cementing his status as a trillionaire. Photo »»»
IMF chief warns energy recovery to take time after US-Iran ceasefire
WASHINGTON, United States — The International Monetary Fund chief has welcomed the ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran, but warned it would take time for energy and other supply disruptions to dissipate."As we have said before, much depends on the duration and intensity of the en»»»
How can a joint France-UK mission help restart shipping in the Strait of Hormuz?
A joint France and UK-led naval mission is ready to deploy to the Strait of Hormuz following an interim agreement between the US and Iran to end the Middle East war. Backed by around 20 countries, the mission aims to draw on widespread logistical know-how and resources to help clear mines and escor»»»
Middle East live: Oil dips to lowest price since March on talk of Hormuz Strait reopening
Oil prices sank again on Tuesday, hitting $US80 per barrel for the first time since early March on the back of an announcement by US President Donald Trump of the Strait of Hormuz's reopening on Friday. It comes as the US and Iran are expected to formally sign a ceasefire settlement later this week»»»
Egypt Bets EGP 12bn on Vaccine Hub to Cut Imports and Expand Regional Reach
ISMAILIA — Egypt plans to channel investments of up to EGP 12 billion (approximately $240 million) into its Vaccine and Biotechnology City by 2030 as Cairo seeks to strengthen pharmaceutical self-sufficiency, reduce reliance on imported vaccines and position itself as a regional manufacturing hub s»»»
Arlindo Chissale, the Mozambican activist and journalist who knew too much
Arlindo Chissale, a journalist and activist who was in contact with the FRANCE 24 Observers team, disappeared on January 7, 2025, in the region of Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, which is the scene of a deadly Islamist insurrection. Chissale spoke out about topics the Mozambican government did not want o»»»
France in focus - Who is Didier Deschamps, the France coach aiming for a third World Cup title?
Didier Deschamps has been coaching the French men's national football team for 14 years, a record period at the helm. He and his players are now aiming for a third World Cup title. The tournament in the US, Canada and Mexico will be his last competition as head of Les Bleus»»»
French department store BHV Marais to end Shein partnership after backlash
French department store BHV Marais will end its partnership with Shein after its operating company sold the landmark Paris outlet to a group of executives. The move follows months of controversy over the fast-fashion retailer’s presence in the store, including outcry over its environmental impact, »»»
Heavyweights Argentina and France start World Cup quests
LOS ANGELES: Lionel Messi’s Argentina and Kylian Mbappe’s France, the two teams who contested a thrilling World Cup final four years ago, roar into the 2026 tournament on Tuesday. Argentina, who won that dramatic contest in Doha in a penalty shootout after it finished 3-3 following extra time, take»»»
Split-second action, life-saving impact: Abu Dhabi Police honours brave resident
Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi Police has honoured a member of the public for his bravery after he helped save a person from drowning. Brigadier Nasser Suleiman Al Maskari, Director of the Operations Department at Abu Dhabi Police’s Central Operations Sector, presented the recognition and praised the man’s q»»»
This Sweden defender at the World Cup isn’t your typical soccer player: He’s a baron!
MONTERREY, Mexico: Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are among the soccer royalty gracing the World Cup in North America. If you want real-life aristocracy, head to Sweden’s squad. Gustaf Lagerbielke, a 26-year-old defender who played the entire match in Sweden’s 5-1 defeat of Tunisia on Sunday, i»»»
Russian artist, Putin critic Semyon Skrepetsky killed in Poland - UPI.com
Police inspect the scene of a shooting in Biala Podlaska, Poland, Tuesday. Russian artist and cartoonist Semyon Skrepetsky, known for mocking Russian President Vladimir Putin, was shot dead in the town. The 44-year-old Russian citizen had been living in Biala Podlaska, which is close to the Belarus»»»
Moscow slams Dutch plan to test POW camp for Russian soldiers
Moscow has condemned a Dutch military test involving a mock prisoner-of-war camp for Russian soldiers, warning European “hotheads” that the facilities would be of no use if a real conflict broke out. Dutch media reported last week that the Netherlands Army was test-running a new POW camp design at »»»
US-Iran deal opens window for Yemen peace: UN envoy
NEW YORK: The US-Iran nuclear deal has created a potential turning point for Yemen’s long-stalled peace process, the UN’s special envoy for Yemen told the Security Council on Tuesday, urging the warring parties to capitalize on the rare moment of regional calm. Briefing the 15-member council on the»»»
The costs to Lebanon of latest Israel-Hezbollah war
BEIRUT: Lebanon has suffered the deadliest spillover of the regional war triggered by the US-Israeli strikes on Iran more than three months ago, which is set to end with a deal between Washington and Tehran.The conflict spread to Lebanon on March 2, when Iran-backed group Hezbollah fired on Israel»»»
Putin to Attend Russia-ASEAN Summit in Kazan on June 17-18 - Kremlin Aide
MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russian President Vladimir Putin will attend the Russia-ASEAN Summit in Kazan on June 17-18, Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov said on Tuesday. "On Wednesday and Thursday, that is, June 17-18, in Kazan, our president will take part in the anniversary summit of Russia - the Association of»»»
Turkish Media Claims Shake Bulgarian Defense Sector: Armored Vehicles Reassembled in Bulgaria
A wave of allegations coming from Turkish media has placed Bulgarian defense entrepreneur Anton Stefov and his company International Armored Group (IAG) under intense scrutiny, with claims of a cross-border scheme involving armored vehicles allegedly dismantled in Turkey, transported in parts, and »»»
Saudi Arabia saved Yemen from another civil war, says top official
MARIB: Maj. Gen. Sultan Al-Aradah, a member of Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council, and governor of Marib, said Saudi Arabia helped prevent Yemen from sliding into a new civil war through what he described as its “sincere” support during the tensions that unfolded in Hadramawt and Al-Mahra last»»»
Syrian authorities arrest militiaman linked to Bashar Assad’s cousin
LONDON: Syrian authorities arrested a man who served as an office director for the cousin of former ruler Bashar Assad for his involvement in crimes targeting unarmed civilians last year. Wissam Saji Osman worked with Yisar Al-Assad, who led Al-Areen 313 Brigades, one of several paramilitary factio»»»
Austria coach Rangnick wary of Jordan at World Cup of surprises
SANTA CLARA, USA: Austria coach Ralf Rangnick is wary that his team could become the latest European nation to be thwarted by sides from the Asian confederation at the World Cup if they fail to bring their best against debutants Jordan on Tuesday. Czech Republic lost 2-1 to South Korea last week b»»»
Like father, like son: Prince George to attend Eton College
LONDON: Britain’s Prince George will attend the prestigious private school Eton College from September, Kensington Palace announced Tuesday, following in the footsteps of his father and heir to the throne Prince William. The 12-year-old prince, who as William’s eldest child is one day set to succee»»»
Lebanese leaders discuss preparations for new round of Israel talks
BEIRUT: Lebanon’s president and prime minister on Tuesday discussed preparations for a new round of talks with Israel next week, after the US and Iran announced a peace deal that includes Lebanon. Lebanon and Israel have been holding direct talks in Washington since April, seeking to end hostilitie»»»
Candidates endorsed by Gov. Kemp, Trump face off in Georgia runoff - UPI.com
Voters are heading back to the polls in Georgia Tuesday for primary election runoffs featuring one contest that pits President Donald Trump’s endorsement against Gov. Brian Kemp’s. Photo by Samuel Corum/UPI | License Photo June 16 (UPI) -- Voters are heading back to the polls in Georgia on Tuesday »»»
EU passes trade deal almost a year after agreement at Turnberry - UPI.com
International leaders gathered at the Group of Seven summitt at Evian-les-Bains, France, Tuesday. The European Union agreed to the trade deal that was ironed out last summer by President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Photo by Yoan Valat. June 16 (UPI) -- The E»»»
Hezbollah thanks Iran negotiator for help stopping Israel’s Lebanon war
BEIRUT: Hezbollah’s chief on Tuesday thanked Iran’s top negotiator for helping stop the “Israeli-American aggression” on Lebanon, after the announcement of a US-Iran deal on ending the Middle East war that includes Lebanon. In a message to Iranian parliament speaker and top negotiator Mohammad Bagh»»»
Finn on trial for Russian sanctions violation risks prison
HELSINKI: A Finnish entrepreneur went on trial on Tuesday accused of exporting trucks and trailers from Finland to neighboring Russia in violation of European sanctions, and faces up to four years in prison if convicted. The man’s company, registered in the town of Lappeenranta near Finland’s borde»»»
China's Homegrown MRI Magnets Make World-Class Scans Affordable Through Self-Reliance
In recent years, the rise of "China Travel" has turned medical tourism into an unexpected window through which foreign visitors can get a glimpse of China's development. Many foreign tourists are surprised when they find that, in China, they can get access to high-quality magnetic resonance imaging»»»
Ex-Eintracht coach Toppmoeller appointed Lens boss
Lille, France: Former Eintracht Frankfurt boss Dino Toppmoeller has been appointed Lens coach after Pierre Sage left for Crystal Palace, the French Ligue 1 club said on Tuesday. The 45-year-old German was sacked by Eintracht in January after four years at the helm, during which he guided them to th»»»
Eight big questions hanging over the US-Iran memorandum of understanding
Dubai: The United States and Iran have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at extending the ceasefire that ended months of conflict and creating a pathway towards a broader settlement. But while the agreement has eased immediate fears of renewed fighting, many of its most important pro»»»
Franco-German group unveils new battle tank at Eurosatory defence fair
Franco-German defence group KNDS on Monday unveiled a new battle tank at the Eurosatory defence industry exhibition near Paris, a week after the two European countries dropped their joint FCAS fighter jet programme. A German chassis and a French gun: the new battle tank unveiled on Monda»»»
Perspective - 'The case of Lyhanna is not exceptional': Head of Women for Women France
The CEO of a French group that fights for the rights of women and children in France has hit out at the French government and justice system. Her comments come after the murder of 11-year-old Lyhanna. The prime suspect in the case is a man who had previously been reported to police as a suspected s»»»
Brent crude oil falls below $80 per barrel; WTI continues to decline - UPI.com
1 of 2 | Crude carrier Universal Winner, a South Korean oil tanker operated by Korean shipping company HMM, reaches waters off the southeastern port city of Ulsan, South Korea, on June 10, about three weeks after exiting the Strait of Hormuz where it had been stranded amid tensions in the Middle Ea»»»
IMF sees Oman economy holding firm despite Middle East war
RIYADH: Oman’s economy has shown resilience despite the war affecting the Middle East, with the International Monetary Fund upgrading its growth forecast for the country by 0.2 percentage points. Releasing its assessment of Oman’s economic outlook amid continued regional conflict after a staff visi»»»
Assessing the Economic Footprint of New Casino Sites in CanadaOpinions
Canada’s online casino sector has moved from a narrow policy issue to a business and fiscal topic. Its economic impact is no longer theoretical. Regulated iGaming has grown under provincial oversight. Ontario’s open model draws the most attention, while Crown-led systems remain central elsewhere. T»»»
Bulgaria: Who Will Pay the Bill? Budget Committee Greenlights €3.8 Billion Debt BombOpinions
The parliamentary Budget and Finance Committee has approved on second reading a proposal allowing Bulgaria to take on up to €3.8 billion in new debt to cover upcoming payments under projects financed through the Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP). The measure was backed during an extraordinary comm»»»
In the Heat: Dozens of Milk Trucks Stuck at Bulgaria’s Borders as Food Safety Agency Order Sparks Industry OutcryOpinions
Dozens of tanker trucks carrying raw milk are currently stranded at Bulgaria’s borders after a new order issued by the Bulgarian Food Safety Agency (BFSA), triggering strong criticism from dairy processors who warn of supply disruption, waste, and potential price increases for basic food products, »»»
West Asia LLC: Assets, Structure and a Change of OwnershipOpinions
West Asia LLC is a St. Petersburg–based company that holds a portfolio of overseas oil and gas assets. It was formerly known as GPN-Middle East Projects LLC. The company was set up in 2020 and spent its first five years under Gazprom Neft PJSC umbrella. On 24 February 2025, Gazprom Neft ceased to b»»»
New initiative launched to redirect Gulf energy flows away from Strait toward Mediterranean
The extended disruption caused by the US-Iran conflict highlights a need for diversifying energy export routes to reduce dependency on shipping via the Strait of Hormuz. A new initiative launched by the Washington, DC-based New Lines Institute seeks to develop Syria and Turkey into major energy dis»»»
UK PM says ‘justice done’ over reported Russia-linked arsons
EVIAN, France: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Tuesday that “justice has been done” after two men were convicted of arson attacks on his property, ordered online by a Russian-speaking handler. The British media have linked the attacks to Russia, with the BBC reporting it had uncovered evid»»»
Hauliers Say Government Signals Support after PM Meeting
Transport sector representatives said Tuesday their meeting with Prime Minister Rumen Radev at the Council of Ministers had largely met their expectations. Some of the sector’s demands call for urgent action by regulators, the Financial Supervision Commission and the Commission on Protection of Com»»»
G7 allies scramble to put Ukraine back atop Trump’s agenda as war drags on
Evian-Les-Bains: US allies at the Group of Seven summit of major industrialised democracies worked Tuesday to push the war in Ukraine back up the agenda of President Donald Trump after more than four years of fighting sparked by Russia’s full-scale attack. The Iran conflict has in recent weeks over»»»
Dubai-based Russian broker wins $1 million with just his third Dubai Duty Free ticket
Dubai: A Dubai-based Russian real estate broker has become the latest dollar millionaire after winning the top prize in the Dubai Duty Free Millennium Millionaire draw held at Dubai International Airport. Vitalli Gamaiunov, a 37-year-old Russian national who has lived in Dubai for the past four yea»»»