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Leaked documents reveal Boris Johnson lobbied Saudi officials on behalf of private firms in 2024, raising questions about potential breaches of lobbying rules and conflicts of interest. The revelations highlight Johnson's post-office activities and contacts with Gulf states, prompting calls for scrutiny.
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Israel launched an unprecedented airstrike in Doha targeting Hamas leaders, killing at least six people, including a Qatari security officer. The attack occurred during ongoing ceasefire negotiations and drew widespread international condemnation. The US and Qatar are discussing regional security responses amid rising regional instability.
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Qatar's foreign minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani condemned Israel's attack on Doha targeting Hamas leaders, calling it 'state terror' and warning it undermines Gaza ceasefire efforts. The attack has heightened regional tensions, with Gulf states rallying around Qatar amid international outrage. The incident complicates ongoing diplomatic efforts to broker peace in Gaza.
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Arab and Islamic leaders convened in Doha for an emergency summit following Israel's strike on Qatar, which killed Hamas officials. The summit aims to pressure Israel to end its Gaza campaign, with leaders condemning the attack as a breach of regional stability and sovereignty. The meeting underscores regional solidarity amid escalating tensions.
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On September 17, 2025, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan formalized a Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement during Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's visit to Riyadh. The pact commits both nations to consider any aggression against one as aggression against both, institutionalizing decades of cooperation amid rising regional tensions following Israel's recent strike on Qatar.
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Saudi Arabia and Pakistan signed a defense agreement, pledging mutual response to aggression, amid regional tensions following Israel's recent attack on Qatar. The pact hints at deeper military cooperation, possibly related to nuclear deterrence, as tensions with Iran and Israel escalate. The story highlights shifting alliances in the Middle East and South Asia.
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As of late September 2025, former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair is spearheading a US-backed plan to establish the Gaza International Transitional Authority (GITA), a UN-endorsed interim government for Gaza excluding Hamas and initially sidelining the Palestinian Authority. The plan aims to stabilize Gaza post-conflict, prevent forced displacement, and eventually unify Palestinian territories under the PA, amid Israeli opposition and ongoing regional tensions.
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Pakistan's Defense Minister Khawaja Mohammad Asif confirmed that Pakistan will extend its nuclear capabilities to Saudi Arabia under a new defense pact. The agreement, signed this week, commits both nations to mutual defense, signaling a strategic shift amid regional tensions and concerns over Israel's nuclear ambiguity. The pact also opens the door for other Arab countries to join.
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The UN General Assembly approved a resolution permitting Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to address the assembly via video, after the US refused to grant him a visa. The vote was 145 in favor, with several countries supporting Palestinian participation despite US opposition and visa restrictions on Palestinian officials. The issue highlights ongoing tensions over Palestine's recognition and US policies.
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Saudi Arabia and Pakistan signed a strategic mutual defense agreement on September 17, formalizing their alliance to deter aggression and enhance regional security. The pact emphasizes joint response to threats, with Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities potentially extending to Saudi Arabia. The move reflects shifting regional alliances amid tensions over Israel, Iran, and India.
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On September 29, 2025, Electronic Arts (EA) agreed to be acquired in a $55 billion leveraged buyout by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), Silver Lake Partners, and Jared Kushner's Affinity Partners. The deal offers EA shareholders $210 per share, a 25% premium, and will take EA private by early fiscal 2027, ending its 36-year public trading history.
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Several high-profile comedians, including Louis CK and Bill Burr, are performing at the Riyadh comedy festival, despite criticism over Saudi Arabia's human rights record. The festival, backed by the Saudi government, raises questions about ethics, free speech, and the country's image. The story highlights the tension between financial gain and moral considerations.
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Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman will visit Washington from November 17-19, his first US trip since 2018. Discussions with President Trump will focus on political, economic, and security issues, including potential normalization with Israel and a US-Saudi security pact. The visit follows a fragile Gaza ceasefire brokered by Trump and his recent Gulf tour.
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Japan's newly elected Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi embarks on her first international trip, including meetings with U.S. President Trump and regional leaders. She faces economic challenges, regional security issues, and complex relations with China, amid her conservative stance and upcoming summits in South Korea and Kuala Lumpur.
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Saudi Arabia has appointed Sheikh Saleh bin Fawzan al-Fawzan as the new grand mufti, succeeding Sheikh Abdulaziz al-Sheikh. The 90-year-old, known for conservative views and controversial statements, was appointed by King Salman on the recommendation of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The move maintains traditional religious hierarchy amid social reforms.
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Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) plans to pivot from large real estate projects like NEOM to focus on logistics, minerals, AI, and religious tourism. The move aims to improve near-term returns amid delays and underperformance of previous giga-projects, with a new strategy expected soon.
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Saudi Arabia is actively engaging in Syria's reconstruction, with plans to attract billions of dollars in investment. Syrian officials highlight progress in economic recovery, while regional and US sanctions remain a challenge. The focus is on rebuilding infrastructure and fostering regional stability.
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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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The US is advancing a UN resolution to establish an international stabilization force in Gaza, aiming to oversee demilitarization, border security, and police training. The resolution follows a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, with troop contributions under discussion. The vote is expected soon, with deployment possible by early 2026.
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The Biden administration is weighing a potential sale of up to 48 F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, a move that could shift regional military balances and test Israel's qualitative military edge. The deal is under review, with final decisions pending approvals and congressional notification.
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Saudi Arabia's ambitious mega-projects, including The Line and NEOM, are experiencing delays and technical challenges. Construction halts, rising costs, and shifting priorities reflect economic pressures and technical hurdles, prompting a reassessment of the kingdom's diversification plans amid low oil prices and budget constraints.
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Saudi Arabia welcomed 115.9 million tourists in 2024, surpassing its Vision 2030 goal six years early. The kingdom is expanding its tourism infrastructure, including giga-projects and new airports, to attract more visitors and diversify its economy. Meanwhile, the Philippines and Egypt are also boosting tourism with new initiatives and investments.
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Paramount Skydance is reportedly preparing a $71 billion bid for Warner Bros. Discovery, involving sovereign wealth funds from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi. Denials have been issued, but reports of meetings with Middle Eastern officials suggest potential regional backing. The deal could reshape media ownership amid regulatory and political considerations.
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Settler violence in the West Bank has intensified, targeting mosques and Palestinian property. Recent attacks include vandalism, arson, and graffiti, with Israeli officials condemning the violence. The incidents coincide with broader regional tensions and international concern over stability and security in the area.
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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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The US reaffirmed plans to sell up to 48 F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia amid regional tensions and concerns over technology security. The deal, announced during Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to Washington, raises questions about regional military balance and Israel's qualitative military edge.
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A federal judge in San Francisco has issued a preliminary injunction preventing the US government from cutting or seeking payments from the University of California over allegations of allowing antisemitism and discrimination. The ruling highlights concerns over federal investigations used to silence opposing viewpoints and violate civil rights laws, emphasizing the importance of due process and free speech protections.
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President Trump is engaging in high-level talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, amid reports of a potential real estate deal involving the Trump family in Diriyah. The negotiations highlight ongoing blending of Trump’s diplomatic role and personal business interests, with several Saudi projects linked to the Trump Organization since his return to office.
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Marjorie Taylor Greene announced her resignation from Congress, citing her desire to avoid a Trump-backed primary and potential impeachment battles. The move follows her feud with Trump and reflects ongoing political shifts within the Republican Party ahead of next year's elections.
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As of November 24, 2025, Iran is pushing for a resumption of stalled nuclear negotiations with the U.S., using Saudi Arabia as a mediator amid fears of renewed Israeli strikes and economic strain. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is visiting France to urge compliance with IAEA obligations, while Tehran denies undeclared enrichment and insists on its right to peaceful nuclear energy.
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The UN Security Council approved a resolution supporting President Trump's Gaza peace plan, which envisions a transitional administration and international stabilisation force in Gaza. The vote was 13-0 with Russia and China abstaining. Israel opposes the plan, citing security concerns and territorial integrity, while regional and international actors react variably.
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The US has agreed to sell F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, marking a significant shift in regional military dynamics. Israel, the only Middle Eastern country with F-35s, opposes the sale, fearing it will erode its military edge. The deal is linked to broader regional diplomacy and US-Saudi relations.
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Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met with former President Trump, highlighting enduring strategic interests despite past controversies. The meeting signals continued close ties, with MBS positioning himself as a regional peacemaker and reformer, amid ongoing regional conflicts and economic challenges.
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Multiple bidders, including Paramount Skydance, Netflix, and Comcast, are competing to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery. Paramount Skydance is seen as the front-runner due to political ties and financial backing, but regulatory hurdles and political considerations could influence the outcome. The story is current as of Thu, 04 Dec 2025.
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On November 19, 2025, President Donald Trump announced plans to intervene in Sudan's civil war following a request from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The conflict, ongoing since April 2023, has killed over 40,000 and displaced more than 14 million. Trump committed to working with Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, and other Middle Eastern partners to end atrocities and stabilize Sudan.
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Cristiano Ronaldo visited the White House on Nov 19, 2025, as part of US efforts to strengthen relations with Saudi Arabia. The visit coincides with Prince Mohammed bin Salman's first US trip since 2018 and US arms sales to Riyadh. Ronaldo's presence highlights Saudi's growing influence in sports and geopolitics.
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President Trump hosted Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the White House, featuring a lavish welcome and discussions on military, economic, and regional issues. The visit included plans for significant Saudi investments in the US, sale of F-35 jets, and efforts to normalize relations with Israel, amid ongoing concerns over human rights and regional stability.
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The US and Saudi Arabia have formalized a multi-billion-dollar partnership covering nuclear energy, defense, and AI. President Trump approved a significant arms sale, including F-35 jets, amid ongoing regional diplomacy and a recent UN ceasefire resolution for Gaza. The agreements aim to strengthen strategic ties.
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President Biden hosted Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the White House, marking his first visit since 2018. The event reignited debate over the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, with U.S. intelligence concluding bin Salman approved the operation, though he denied involvement. Biden's stance and the visit's implications remain contentious.
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President Trump announced that the US has designated Saudi Arabia as a major non-NATO ally, following a strategic defense agreement and new arms deals, including F-35 fighter jets and tanks. The move aims to strengthen regional security and economic ties, with implications for Middle East power dynamics.
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Saudi Arabia commits to investing $1 trillion in AI infrastructure, partnering with U.S. firms like Nvidia, AMD, and Cisco. Musk's xAI will deploy its chatbot Grok across the kingdom, aiming to turn Saudi Arabia into a major AI hub amid US export restrictions and regional ambitions.
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Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced a $1 trillion US investment, but the kingdom's Public Investment Fund faces cash shortages due to costly, delayed projects like Neom and others, raising questions about the country's economic ambitions.
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Today marks half a century since Francisco Franco's death, ending his authoritarian rule. The anniversary prompts reflection on his legacy, with debates over his impact on Spain's democracy and rising support for right-wing parties among younger generations. Recent polls show a significant minority view Franco's dictatorship positively.
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Saudi Arabia's cabinet, chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, highlighted recent agreements with the US across defense, AI, nuclear energy, and investment sectors. The visit aimed to deepen strategic partnerships, with a focus on economic diversification, regional stability, and technological collaboration, including a new AI partnership and significant investment commitments.
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The EU has imposed sanctions on Abdel-Rahim Hamdan Dagalo, deputy head of Sudan's Rapid Support Forces, following the seizure of El-Fasher in Darfur. The move condemns ongoing atrocities, including killings and sexual violence, amid Sudan's escalating conflict that has displaced millions since 2023. The US and other nations are calling for ceasefires and increased diplomatic efforts.
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Nearly 200 nations reached a consensus at COP30 in Belem, Brazil, focusing on climate finance for developing countries but avoiding explicit mention of fossil fuels. The summit faced divisions over fossil fuel phaseouts, with the U.S. absent and protests ongoing. Brazil aims to reduce Amazon deforestation by 2030 amid political challenges.
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Amid ongoing conflict in Sudan, the RSF announced a unilateral three-month ceasefire following US and regional mediation efforts, but clashes continue. The Sudanese army rejected the proposals, citing bias and security concerns, as international actors push for peace amid a worsening humanitarian crisis.
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Saudi Arabia has relaxed alcohol sales for non-Muslim residents, expanding access beyond diplomats. Recent changes include allowing high-income expatriates to purchase alcohol at Riyadh's sole liquor store, as part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's broader reforms to diversify the economy and attract foreign talent.
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Cristiano Ronaldo received a three-match ban from FIFA after a red card incident in Portugal's qualifying match against Ireland. The ban includes deferred games under probation, affecting his participation in the upcoming World Cup. Ronaldo's disciplinary record and recent activities are also under scrutiny amid broader geopolitical developments.
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Pedro Hernandez, convicted in 2017 for the murder of Etan Patz, has had his conviction overturned and is now set for a retrial. The Manhattan DA's office announced readiness to proceed, with jury selection due by June 1, or Hernandez will be released. The case remains a landmark in child abduction history.