A geopolitical region spanning West Asia with deep political and energy dynamics
Central banks have responded to a surge in global energy prices and persistent inflation. The US Federal Reserve has raised its policy rate to 3.75–4.00% and signalled more tightening; the ECB has raised its rate to 2.50%. The Bank of England has held at 3.75% but warned higher energy costs will force future rises.
President Trump has reiterated a memory of Ground Zero, prompting questions about the timing of his presence at 9/11 events. Multiple outlets are challenging the timeline while he defends the account at ceremonies and on Truth Social.
Israel’s desalination network has largely resumed operations after a major algae-induced shutdown that disrupted drinking water supply across the country. Authorities are mobilising back-up sources while public water use remains under watch as scientists study the bloom’s origin and the broader risk to coastal infrastructure.
Next has raised full-year profit guidance for the fourth time this year, citing strong half-year performance aided by unusually warm summers. Morrisons reports robust quarterly trading, while Jigsaw showcases momentum, with online growth and international expansion under a turnaround plan.
A six-storey building in Gaza City’s Tal al-Hawa collapses after being damaged in the war, killing at least 12 and injuring many others. Rescue teams, including Gazan Civil Defence and international partners, are searching for more victims beneath the rubble as concerns over shelter, winter risk, and safety rise.
Rhodium Group finds Chinese frontier AI labs generate only a fraction of OpenAI and Anthropic revenue, challenging assumptions about scale. Z.ai and Moonshot are expanding ARR, while official rounds push for greater in-house sovereignty and AI-powered efficiency.
Labour leader Andy Burnham has framed the party’s first budget around growth and devolution, while economists warn that higher energy costs and borrowing costs will constrain options. A No 10 event lineup showcased a “partner for growth” approach as the budget on Oct. 28 approaches.
The Strait of Hormuz tensions and wider Middle East conflict have disrupted routes and raised freight costs. Analysts say container ships and tankers are rerouting, with longer voyages around Africa and higher insurance costs affecting European retailers and Asian suppliers.
A global report shows 2025 was among the driest years for river flows in 35 years, with groundwater and glaciers dwindling. Major river systems are under stress from drought, pollution and overexploitation, prompting calls for action and data-sharing to protect communities and economies.
South Korea is weighing possible contributions to international efforts to secure the Strait of Hormuz, under pressure from the US and amid Iran’s warnings. Government officials say any deployment would require parliamentary approval and compliance with domestic law, while discussions with allies continue. Movements reflect broader tensions in the US-South Korea alliance and the geopolitics of global energy routes.
Mortgages have seen sustained increases as oil prices surge, fueling inflation concerns and boosting bond yields. The latest data show the 30-year fixed rate has risen to multi-month highs, with refinancings and home-purchase activity muting as borrowing costs weigh on buyers.
South Sudan’s electoral commission has appointed a new chair while the transitional timeline remains in flux. Observers warn that leadership changes could affect voter registration and the credibility of December polls, as legal procedures for removal are scrutinised.
Stocks have risen modestly after the Fed signalled further rate increases this year, while bond yields stay elevated amid inflation concerns and energy pressures. Investors wait for clarity on the trajectory of policy and energy costs as the election cycle looms.
The White House is facing renewed scrutiny over Natalie Harp, Trump’s close aide known as the “human printer,” as reports of her role and gifts surface during the Irish visit. Independent reporting shows Harp’s proximity to the president has sparked internal tensions and renewed questions about media access and internal communications.
Nepal has faced catastrophic floods after a glacial collapse on the Nepal–China border, leaving thousands dead or missing. The government seeks international climate finance and emergency support as debates over loss-and-damage funding intensify ahead of global talks.
The 2027 Formula One calendar has been announced, opening in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia with sprint weekends expanding from six to ten. Monza, Monaco, andPortimao return, while Portugal and Turkey rejoin. The Middle East remains a focus amid security concerns, with Imola serving as a potential finale backup. Officials stress global reach and fan engagement as the season adds more sprint events.
AP and Independent profiles converge on photographer Vadim Ghirda, highlighting his advocacy for human stories, night shoots, and risk-filled assignments across conflict zones and iconic landscapes. The interviews underscore photography as a universal language and a lifelong pursuit of ‘soul’ in a moment.
The EU is advancing a plan to shield children from social media harms, with von der Leyen set to unveil the “EU Kids Act.” The package aims to make platforms safer for youngsters and considers age limits, while delegations discuss the broader digital and defense agendas ahead of the Strasbourg speech.
A string of reviews highlights Sorrel in Jeddah for its quality breakfasts and stylish plating, while noting prices may strain larger families. The restaurant’s European-influenced menu draws consistent praise for dishes like steak with hummus and harissa eggs, but visitors warn the high costs at peak times.
Japan has posted a fourth straight month of red ink with August imports up 28% year-on-year to 11.15 trillion yen as Brent crude climbs above $100 a barrel. Exports rose 19.3%, led by chips and autos, while global rate expectations push the BOJ to consider a policy shift; the U.S. Fed is expected to lift rates soon.
The government has faced rising inflation to 3.1% in August, driven by Middle East turmoil and higher fuel prices. Ministers are facing calls to act on the cost of living, with energy bills and transport costs under scrutiny ahead of the autumn Budget.
AWS has determined it cannot restore access to resources and data in Bahrain and one UAE site after March drone strikes. The company is focusing on UAE resources across other regions while Bahrain resources remain unavailable.
Top golfers have expressed reservations about the UAE season-ending events amid regional conflict. The DP World Tour says it remains intent on staging the Abu Dhabi Championship and the Dubai Championship, but players are weighing safety and personal circumstances. Decisions are being monitored as new developments unfold.
The government has signalled a challenging Budget as inflation remains elevated amid global tensions in the Middle East, Ukraine and broader macro headwinds. Ministers are facing scrutiny over fiscal credibility and how to balance growth with prudent spending ahead of the Budget.
Sondhi Limthongkul has launched a campaign called “Take Back Thailand” to channel anger over living costs, corruption, and foreign interference, seeking to pressure the government of Anutin to respond to public demands. The effort aims to push for peace unless the administration acts.
Iran has publicly mobilised a large volunteer force to receive limited military training alongside the IRGC and Basij, amid economic strain and ongoing conflict. State media say hundreds of thousands are registered or participating, with speeches pledging defense and deterrence. The spectacle includes displayed weaponry and drones, while tensions with the US and Israel remain high.
The European Union has accused Russia of intensifying hybrid attacks, including drones, cyber operations and disinformation, targeting European infrastructure. Macron says France is strengthening protections for critical sites and will convene a G7 meeting to discuss energy and security responses.
An intelligence report generated with AI caused the US military to halt a planned operation against a Chinese ship carrying components for a nuclear program. Officials have identified the error as a chatbot misidentifying cargo, prompting safeguards on AI use in decision-making.