Capital and largest city of Saudi Arabia; regional hub and political center.
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.
Pakistan has conducted intelligence-based ground operations and calibrated strikes along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, targeting Jamaat-ul-Ahrar and Fitna al-Khwarij. Officials report 29 militants killed, with additional engagements across Paktia, Paktika and Kunar. Pakistan vows to protect citizens as cross-border violence intensifies.
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.
The US has carried out repeated air and naval strikes across Iran to degrade Tehran's ability to threaten shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has responded with missile and drone attacks on US bases and Gulf allies, and the IRGC has warned civilians near US forces to stay away; the exchanges have closed much of the strait and pushed oil prices higher.
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.
Prediction markets have seen a surge in notional volume in June as FIFA World Cup excitement sustains trading on Kalshi, Polymarket, and Rothera. International platforms report sustained high open interest and volumes, while regulators monitor market integrity amid heightened activity.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A wave of updates across Uber, Waymo, Baidu, and others is redefining autonomous-vehicle deployment in major markets. Partnerships are shifting, apps are expanding beyond rides, and regulators are sharpening standards. The evolving ecosystem is accelerating, with major players preparing for broader rollout in 2028 and beyond.
Drones and missiles target Saudi energy infrastructure amid a broader surge in US-Iran hostilities. Riyadh says the attacks were launched from Iraqi territory by Iran-backed militias; Iraqi authorities condemn the strikes while Yemen’s Houthis claim to have attacked Saudi shipping. The lull in fighting is punctuated by new strikes across the region as mediators push for talks.
Oil prices have risen this week after U.S. officials narrowed a waiver to the Jones Act for energy shipments and data showed U.S. crude stocks have fallen to multi-decade lows. Traders are parsing mixed statements from Washington and Tehran about talks to reopen the Strait of Hormuz while reparations demands have emerged, keeping markets volatile on 11 Aug 2026.
The US has finalised a 30‑year civilian nuclear cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia and has submitted it to Congress for review. The pact will allow US firms to help build Saudi nuclear power, could permit domestic uranium enrichment after a joint study, and has drawn warnings that it will increase proliferation risks and regional tensions.
The United States has signed a 123 agreement with Saudi Arabia to expand civilian nuclear cooperation and potentially allow enrichment abroad. While officials promise high safeguards, experts warn of proliferation risks and uncertain oversight as Congress reviews the deals.
Houthi forces have claimed missile, drone and cruise-missile strikes on two Saudi oil tankers, Encelia and Layla, in the Red Sea and have declared a naval blockade of Saudi ports. The attack has caused a fire aboard one tanker, forced several ships to turn back and driven marine insurance and oil prices higher while US strikes on Iranian targets continue.
News outlets report US officials are examining possible Russian involvement in Iran-linked drone strikes on CIA facilities in the Gulf region, citing growing evidence of Moscow’s technical support for Tehran. Analysts say Moscow’s assistance could influence broader US-Iran dynamics as tensions persist.
The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations is underway in Morocco with 16 teams, 34 matches, and a new qualification tie to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Morocco hosts; Nigeria defends the title as several debutants join the field. Kick-off times start at 17:00 GMT across venues, with the final on Aug. 16.
The United States has proposed a civilian nuclear partnership with Saudi Arabia, promising non-enriched facilities and no snap inspections. Critics warn it could trigger a regional nuclear race while allies voice concerns about proliferation and regional stability.
Saudi Arabia launches a defensive, coalition-led effort to secure Red Sea shipping routes as Houthi attacks and US-Iran tensions threaten freedom of navigation. The alliance aims to coordinate intelligence, exercises, and joint operations across signatories, with a focus on protecting vital energy corridors and maritime trade.
The conflict in the Middle East is intensifying as Yemen's Houthi rebels claim missile strikes on Saudi targets, prompting responses from Saudi-led forces and US officials. Washington is weighing strikes on Iran as the region sees a widening front, with naval blockades and interceptions shaping an increasingly volatile Red Sea corridor.
Tensions in the Red Sea have intensified as Houthis escalate maritime attacks and a blockade against Saudi-linked shipping. Attacks target vessels, widen regional confrontation, and threaten global energy routes amid ongoing US-Iran tensions.
Tensions between the Yemeni government and Houthi rebels have intensified, with the Houthis threatening a maritime blockade and both sides exchanging fire near Hodeidah. Afrah al-Zouba has warned the Houthis may copy Iranian strategies in Hormuz to control Red Sea access, raising the risk to global shipping.
Military strikes targeting Iran-aligned militias in Iraq have intensified after recent drone and missile attacks on oil facilities and US-Saudi interests. Iraqi, Saudi, and US officials describe the actions as responses to ongoing threats, with Iraqi investigations underway and growing regional anger.
The US has completed a two-hour "heavy wave" of strikes across Iran, hitting Revolutionary Guard command centres, missile and drone facilities and coastal surveillance sites after Tehran fired ballistic missiles at US forces. Iran has launched retaliatory drone and missile strikes on US assets and allied facilities in the region; Jordan reported intercepting missiles with no casualties.
The United States and Saudi Arabia have signed a civilian nuclear cooperation agreement and a bilateral safeguards pact, but President Donald Trump has said the deal is conditional on Riyadh normalising relations with Israel. Officials and commentators are disputing whether the White House and Energy Department coordinated the announcement. Critics warn the pact weakens non‑proliferation safeguards and could spur a regional arms race.
The latest published pieces show a widening strike pattern across the Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, and nearby states. Tehran’s campaign targets civilian and strategic assets, while Gulf and U.S.-backed defenses intercept most threats. Diplomatic channels persist even as attacks resume, hinging on a broader security architecture rather than a single guarantee.
The coalition to protect Red Sea shipping is expanding as Saudi Arabia leads talks with dozens of countries. Britain has not yet joined the coalition but is weighing its response while warning of threats to maritime navigation.
Oil majors have posted strong quarterly profits amid continued volatility from the Iran-U.S. conflict and the Hormuz Strait. Aramco and European peers report multi-billion results, while policymakers and markets watch for potential windfall taxes and supply routes.
A massive wildfire in southwest France has forced more than 220,000 people to evacuate in the Gironde region, with authorities expanding evacuations as flames threaten communities near Bordeaux. Across Europe, thousands have fled, and regional shelters are operating to support displaced residents.
Iran-backed Houthis have escalated drone and missile attacks in Yemen, with reports of hundreds killed or injured among Yemeni forces. Regional powers are engaging in Oman-mediated talks while exploring military options if diplomacy fails; oil markets respond as Brent hovers near $80 and Red Sea shipping routes face disruption.
Kurdistan authorities have reported Iranian-launched drones struck the private office of KRG Prime Minister Masrour Barzani and the residence of the region's security agency chief on 17 August, with no casualties. The attacks come as Baghdad presses for a September 30 deadline to bring armed factions under state control and as cross-border strikes and US-Saudi operations have raised tensions across Iraq.
Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has not appeared in public since taking the role after his father’s death in February. State media say talks with the US continue as Tehran hints at potential footage releases; meanwhile, Iran signals conditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz as regional conflicts escalate.
The Sudanese conflict persists as fighting between the army and RSF continues to upheave daily life. Civilians confront displacement, blocked routes, and humanitarian struggles, while international voices call for action.
Houthis have launched repeated drone, missile and naval strikes that have damaged Yemen’s Mocha port, killed dozens and forced the port’s suspension. The group has claimed a drone hit on Saudi Aramco’s Jazan refinery and renewed attacks on shipping in the Red Sea and Bab al‑Mandeb, while Yemeni government forces have mounted counter‑attacks across multiple fronts.
Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan have signed the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement, establishing a mutual defence framework. The pact treats an armed attack on any member as an attack on all, while stopping short of detailing automatic troop deployment. It builds on prior defense ties and signals a move toward a more regionally driven security order amid heightened Gulf tensions and Iran-Israel dynamics.
Harvey Nichols has been put up for sale and is undergoing a turnaround led by Frasers Group. The six-storefront estate, including Edinburgh’s flagship, will continue operating while a broader restructuring is pursued, with potential integration of Flannels and the wider Frasers luxury ecosystem.
A protocol establishing a Sudanese-Turkish University strengthens higher education ties, expands scholarships, and lays groundwork for joint academic work between Sudan and Turkey. The agreement aims to develop capacity, support research, and foster mutual expertise, signalling a new phase in bilateral academic collaboration.
Houthi attacks on Yemen’s Red Sea coast have intensified, striking Mocha and al-Makha ports as government forces and militants trade strikes across Marib, Taiz and the western coast. The violence threatens shipping lanes, raises regional tensions, and risks drawing in regional powers as talks for a ceasefire stall.
Mari has entered a definitive agreement to buy ATG Entertainment from Providence, valuing around £4.5 billion per reports. ATG operates about 70 theatres globally, with West End venues and regional theatres. The deal keeps ATG operating under its brand and leadership while expanding Mari’s live-entertainment portfolio.
The Mecca Joint Defence Agreement binds Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan to mutual defence and deterrence. Signed August 7, it marks a shift toward regional security coordination as US involvement in the Middle East becomes more constrained, with analysts noting the pact may empower regional partners without fully replacing Washington’s role.
Cristiano Ronaldo has said this season is likely to be his last as a player, aiming to leave a spectacular legacy. He notes his future is mapped out, with plans to stay busy beyond football, including travel, padel and family time. He remains under contract with Al-Nassr through 2027 and is nearing 1,000 career goals.
Negotiations for the Joshua-Fury clash have hit a time pressure as talks over venue and terms intensify. Joshua’s camp wants the UK contract honoured; Netflix-backed Saudi organizers push for the US, with Madison Square Garden in the spotlight. Addenda on compensation and logistics are under discussion, but no final agreement has been reached. The two camps remain in negotiations ahead of a potential November date.
France has signed a €6bn agreement with Qiddiya, a Saudi investment company linked to the kingdoms public fund, to build three theme parks near Cergy-Pontoise northwest of Paris, including one inspired by Dragon Ball Z. The deal was signed during Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salmans state visit and is expected to create about 22,000 jobs; construction will open in stages over several years.
The United States has expanded its sanctions regime on Iran, aiming to sever economic lifelines and pressure Tehran as war grinds on. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has framed the move as an "economic D-Day" and a broad push that targets digital assets, technology, gold, aviation and shipping, with penalties also aimed at more than 60 entities worldwide.
Moses Itauma is challenging Filip Hrgović for the vacant IBF heavyweight title at London’s O2 Arena. He is aiming to become the second-youngest heavyweight champion of all time, behind Mike Tyson, while facing a veteran opponent in Hrgović. Promoter Frank Warren backs him to win as Itauma defends his unbeaten record.