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The UAE summoned Israel's deputy envoy to condemn a recent Israeli attack on Qatar, marking a rare diplomatic rebuke. The strike targeted Hamas leaders in Doha, prompting regional outrage and raising concerns over US-Gulf relations amid ongoing Gaza conflict. The incident signals heightened regional tensions and potential shifts in Gulf diplomacy.
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Qatar's emir visits Jordan following Israeli strikes on Doha, which killed six. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) pledged to activate a joint defense mechanism amid regional tensions. Leaders discussed military cooperation, regional stability, and Israel's actions in Gaza and neighboring countries.
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GCC nations from Saudi Arabia to Oman now offer various long-term visas, allowing foreigners to live, work, and invest without local sponsors. The UAE's Golden Visa led the trend, with other countries adopting their own versions, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Bahrain, each with specific investment and residency criteria.
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British Chancellor Rachel Reeves is in Saudi Arabia to advance a trade agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council, aiming to boost UK economic growth by up to £1.6 billion annually. The trip includes meetings with Saudi royals, US officials, and business leaders, amid ongoing debates over human rights and fiscal policies. The UK hopes to deepen economic ties and attract investment.
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On November 18, 2025, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met President Donald Trump at the White House to advance a U.S.-Saudi defense pact, including arms sales like F-35 jets, and discuss economic cooperation. Saudi Arabia remains firm that normalization with Israel hinges on a credible, time-bound pathway to Palestinian statehood. Meanwhile, Lebanon and Saudi Arabia are restoring commercial ties after years of strain.
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On November 18, 2025, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman made his first U.S. visit since the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Despite U.S. intelligence linking the prince to the murder, President Trump warmly welcomed him, announcing plans to sell F-35 jets and pursue economic and defense deals, while pressing for Saudi-Israel normalization.
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South Africa reports a third consecutive quarter of GDP growth, driven by sectors like mining, trade, and agriculture. Despite structural challenges, the economy shows signs of recovery, with employment rising and key industries expanding, supported by ongoing reforms and energy improvements.