Capital city of Saudi Arabia and hub of politics and commerce
Yemen's Houthi movement has declared an immediate maritime embargo against Saudi Arabia, saying it will close the Bab al‑Mandab to Saudi vessels in retaliation for a reported Saudi blockade of Houthi ports and last week's strikes on Sanaa airport. The announcement has raised fears of renewed attacks on Red Sea shipping and wider disruption to oil routes that already bypass the Strait of Hormuz.
OpenAI is contending in a high-stakes legal battle with Apple over a trade secrets lawsuit that could affect its hardware plans. The dispute centers on alleged misconduct by former Apple employees now at OpenAI, including senior hardware leadership. The case intersects with OpenAI’s rumored IPO timing and its ambitions in hardware.
Iraq’s prime minister travels to Washington to deepen economic ties as the Strait of Hormuz remains closed and fighting between the US and Iran intensifies. Oil output, IMF talks, and potential US investment are on the table while Iran-backed groups push back against disarmament. Diplomatic prospects hinge on stabilizing energy flows and expanding state control over weapons.
The United Arab Emirates has announced it has withdrawn from OPEC and the OPEC+ alliance effective May 1, saying a review of its production policy and expanded domestic capacity require greater national control. The move removes a major spare-capacity holder and will weaken OPEC's ability to stabilise global oil supply when Gulf shipping resumes.
GCC leaders in Jeddah are coordinating a unified regional response to Iran-related attacks and the war, while pressing to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and accelerate cross-border projects in transport, energy and water security.
Cristiano Ronaldo has helped Al-Nassr clinch the Saudi Pro League title with a 4-1 win over Damac, securing the club’s 11th league crown and Ronaldo’s first major trophy with the club. The victory follows closely after he was named in Portugal’s World Cup roster. Al-Hilal finished second, undefeated in 34 games.
Oil markets are facing a prolonged impact from the current crisis in the Strait of Hormuz, with analysts and industry leaders warning that a full rebound in flows may take years. Saudi and UAE officials emphasise resilience strategies to cushion prices, while other observers caution that the damage to global trading systems will extend beyond the immediate conflict.
Former Yemeni president Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi has died in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, at the age of 80. State media confirm three days of mourning and the transition of power in Yemen’s internationally recognized government continues from exile.
Saudi Arabia is expanding Riyadh Air as part of Vision 2030, aiming to turn the capital into a global aviation hub and reduce reliance on oil. The first Dreamliner deliveries have begun, with a plan to connect Riyadh to over 100 destinations and boost passenger capacity while expanding airport capacity to support this growth.
The National Resistance Council of Iran says a planned Paris rally against executions has been cancelled by Paris police “after business hours,” citing public order concerns. Paris police deny the link to a call between French and Iranian ministers. NCRI says it will appeal; Reuters confirms the ban and notes prior protests by the NCRI in Paris.
Three pairs of conjoined twins, Olivia and Gianna in Riyadh; Mercy and Goodness in Abu Dhabi; and a fourth Filipino pair in Saudi care, have undergone or prepared for separation surgeries funded by national programs and charities. Updates show varying stages of recovery and ongoing post-operative care.
Usyk has vacated the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight belts to allow contenders to fight for them, a move that opens the division and sets the stage for new champions. Kabayel has become WBC champion, while Gassiev is poised to inherit the WBA title; IBF actions point toward Frank Sanchez or Moses Itauma as next contenders. The sport faces a reshuffle as Usyk pivots toward a final, high-stakes bout.
Cross-border drone and air strikes escalate hostility between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Pakistan reports four drones intercepted from Afghanistan and vows a measured but forceful response; Afghan authorities say air strikes have targeted militant hideouts. Civil casualties rise as both sides accuse each other of aggression amid ongoing tit-for-tat operations.
The United States has signaled the removal of Syria from its designated state sponsors of terrorism, with President Trump telling Syrian counterpart Ahmed al-Sharaa that barriers to rebuilding will be removed and US investment will follow. Congress will review for 45 days before any change takes effect, and officials say sanctions relief could accelerate Syria’s reconstruction and reintegration, though experts caution structural reforms are still needed.
Saudi Arabia has championed an international pledge to empower women in cybersecurity and strengthen cooperation on cyber policy at a UN Human Rights Council session. The resolution, submitted by Riyadh’s Geneva mission, builds on a 2020 crown prince initiative and aims to boost participation, skills development and safe digital environments worldwide.
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani has died at 74, Qatar's Amiri Diwan has announced. He has been credited with transforming Qatar into an energy and diplomatic power by expanding LNG production, founding Al Jazeera, building sovereign investment vehicles and stepping down voluntarily in 2013 to hand power to his son.
The Iraqi prime minister-designate has arrived in Washington as Washington pressures Baghdad to disarm Iran-backed militias and curb corruption. The visit centers on expanding economic ties, attracting investment, and reinforcing state control, amid Tehran’s influence and security challenges.
The United States has prepared a 123 Agreement with Saudi Arabia to help develop a civilian nuclear program. The agreement, signed by Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, is expected to be submitted to Congress within days for a 90-day review window. It omits stricter safeguards known as the Gold Standard and the Additional Protocol, prompting bipartisan concerns about nonproliferation.