1 hour ago
Israel Mulling Attacks on Iran Energy Sites Despite Biden Objections, Oil Spikes
A number of days have passed with no Israeli retaliation against Iran for its Oct. 1st major attack which saw nearly 200 ballistic missiles pummel the Tel Aviv area, including hits on important Israeli air bases. A lot of back-and-forth and contradictory reports later, and with the US side reportedly trying to ‘talk Netanyahu down’, Israel is saying that strikes on Iran’s energy facilities are still definitely on the table: US OFFICIALS TO NBC – ISRAEL IS CONSIDERING STRIKING ENERGY FACILITIES IN IRAN The news wire sent crude prices spiking, as has been the pattern over the last week of threats and counterthreats flying between Tehran and Tel Aviv… According to the latest from Axios: “Netanyahu refuses to approve Defense Minister Yoav Galant’s trip to Washington planned for tonight until a he gets a phone call with President Biden and until the Israeli cabinet approves the response to Iran’s missile attack, according to a source with knowledge of the details. The New York Times reported Monday based on Israeli officials that a significant counter attack is still coming, and it is expected to target Iranian military sites. The fresh report also lists as likely targets Iranian intelligence sites and officials’ offices or headquarters. President Biden has warned against […]
2 hours ago
Jeddah Mayoralty Issues Strict Conditions for Buildings on Commercial Streets
The Jeddah Mayoralty has issued strict terms and conditions for buildings on commercial streets in the city. According to the conditions, buildings located on commercial streets must not have windows that violate building regulations, and must not have openings in the compound wall that allow visibility. It also stipulated that the approved parking spaces in the basement must not be modified, and that a separate staircase must be set up for the mezzanine floor in buildings located on commercial streets. The conditions also include establishing a ramp for people with disabilities and providing parking spaces for them in front of the ramp, in addition to covering the sewage tanks, not having dilapidated and incomplete compound walls, besides ensuring that external stairs and car entrances are within the owned property’s boundaries. The conditions include not placing split air conditioning units on the facades of buildings. Also, the facade must be free of cracks, damage and rust, and satellite dishes must not be installed on balconies or building facades. The conditions set by the Jeddah Mayoralty on buildings include not having awnings or hangars outside the building boundaries. Balconies should not be covered with materials that do not match the shape and […]
2 hours ago
Bahraini Man Jailed for Asian Bank Shares Fraud
A sophisticated fraud scheme involving the sale of non-existent shares in an Asian bank has landed a Bahraini man a sixmonth prison sentence. The perpetrator, a repeat offender, used a pre-existing relationship with his male victim to convince him to invest a substantial BD251,000 in a fictitious financial institution. He presented meticulously forged documents to support his fraudulent claims, deceiving the victim into believing he was making a sound investment. The deception only unraveled after the transaction was complete, prompting an investigation. The Public Prosecution’s case focused on the fraudulent acquisition of funds and the defendant’s creation and use of counterfeit banking documents. The case moved through the Bahraini court system, beginning with the Minor Criminal Court. Documents During questioning, the victim stated, “He was very convincing. We’ve known each other for years, and he presented everything so professionally. The documents looked completely legitimate.” He further added, “I never suspected anything until I tried to verify the investment with the supposed bank in Asia. That’s when I realized it was all a lie.” This court initially sentenced the defendant to six months in prison, a BD1,000 fine, and ordered the confiscation of the forged documents. Verdict The High Criminal Court […]
2 hours ago
Bahraini Authorities Chase Two Suspects in Major Captagon Smuggling Case
Bahraini authorities are actively pursuing two individuals, both 26 years old, linked to a significant drug smuggling operation that led to the seizure of approximately 130,000 Captagon pills. These suspects are currently believed to be operating outside of the Kingdom, prompting legal proceedings to secure their arrest and facilitate their extradition back to Bahrain. The Ministry of Interior announced on Sunday the successful interception of the Captagon shipment, which is valued at BD 640,000 (approximately $1.7 million USD). This operation is a testament to the effectiveness of a collaborative effort between several security agencies, including customs and drug enforcement units. The authorities revealed that the drugs were cleverly concealed within a shipment of tightly sealed pipes, which were prepared in specialized workshops to evade detection. In connection with the case, a 38-year-old woman has already been arrested for her involvement in the smuggling operation. Authorities are investigating her role and any potential links to the main suspects. Sources close to the investigation have disclosed that critical information shared by Qatari authorities played a pivotal role in the successful interception of the shipment. This highlights the importance of regional cooperation in combating drug smuggling and organized crime. The investigation has traced […]
2 hours ago
Oman-Based Siblings Set Guinness World Record for Largest Bottle Cap Sentence
Atharv and Ira Yadav, a brother-sister duo, along with their family team known as the Eco-Trio, have etched their names in history by setting a new Guinness World Record (GWR) for the largest sentence crafted from plastic bottle caps. Their monumental achievement, completed on June 30, 2024, at the Muscat Grand Mall in Muscat, consisted of an impressive 70,080 bottle caps forming the quote by Benjamin Franklin: “Either write something worth reading or do something worth writing.” However, the validation of the record officially by Guinness World Record (GWR) was made recently. This endeavour is aimed to raise awareness about the pressing issue of plastic waste and the critical importance of recycling. A six-month commitment to environmental advocacy The Eco-Trio initiated their project in December 2023, collecting bottle caps in 49 bags from various organisations, including Bank Muscat, Oman Cricket Academy, Funzone Qurum and multiple other sources. The project took over six months and culminated in a meticulous assembly that took more than 15 hours of continuous work. The sentence crafted by the Eco-Trio not only set a world record but also highlighted their commitment to sustainability and the innovative spirit of the community. Broke previous record The new record […]
2 hours ago
Two Arrested for Possessing Drugs in South Al Sharqiyah
Two expats have been arrested for possessing more than 22 kilograms of hashish, quantities of crystal meth, morphine, marijuana and more than 2,600 psychotropic tablets in South Al Sharqiyah Governorate. A statement issued online by Royal Oman Police (ROP), said:” South Al Sharqiyah Governorate Police Command arrests two Asian nationals for possessing more than 22 kilograms of hashish, quantities of crystal meth, morphine, marijuana, and more than 2,600 psychotropic tablets. Legal procedures are being completed against them.”
2 hours ago
15-Year Jail for 2 Expats Convicted of Fraud Involving SR22 Million
A Saudi court sentenced two expatriates to 15 years each in prison after their conviction of fraud involving SR22 million, according to the Public Prosecution. The court also imposed SR1 million fine on one of the convicts while the second one was fined with SR500000. The convicts will be deported after serving their jail terms and payment of fines. The court confiscated the money earned by the convicts through their crimes, the Saudi Press Agency reported. The Financial Fraud wing under the Public Prosecution has begun its investigations with two expatriates involved in forming a financial fraud gang that targeted victims inside and outside the Kingdom. It was revealed in investigations that the two defendants established call centers in several regions of the Kingdom. They used these centers to make fraudulent calls by claiming that they were representatives of government agencies. The perpetrators were able to carry out 177 financial fraud operations in different regions of the Kingdom, and thus managed to collect illegal gains exceeding SR22 million. Upon searching the residence of the two defendants, tablets and external SIM cards were found, in addition to two advanced devices for passing fraudulent calls and a control device that completely manages the […]
2 hours ago
Chinese Cinemas to Screen Saudi Films for the First Time This Month
The Saudi Film Commission has announced the launch of Saudi Film Nights in China, the world’s largest cinema market, following the success of previous such events in Morocco and Australia. Chinese cinemas will be showcasing Saudi films for the first time. Special screenings will be held before the official release of these films in Chinese theatres. Saudi Film Nights are scheduled to take place from October 21 to 26 in Beijing, Shanghai, and Suzhou. They will feature a diverse selection of Saudi feature films, short films, and discussions with filmmakers. The event is expected to attract prominent figures, journalists, and film critics from China, alongside cinema enthusiasts. This initiative is part of the commission’s efforts to drive the growth and development of the Saudi film industry, as well as to highlight local talent, and promote cultural exchange and collaboration.
3 hours ago
Abu Dhabi Bans Cultivation of ‘Beautiful but Toxic’ Oleander Plants, Warns Public Not to Touch Them
The production, cultivation, propagation and trading of oleander plants has been banned by authorities in Abu Dhabi. The measure aligns with both local and federal laws, and aims to protect members of society, especially children and pets, from the risks of poisoning resulting from eating any part of this toxic plant, according to the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority. Oleander is a perennial wild shrub commonly found in rocky valleys and often planted along roadsides for its aesthetic appeal, with its dark green leaves and vibrant flowers. However, all parts of this plant—including leaves, stems, flowers, and seeds—contain toxic substances. These toxins can affect the heart, and ingestion of even a small amount may result in severe symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, irregular heartbeat, and, in extreme cases, death. ADAFSA urged citizens and residents to cooperate with the authorities, dispose of oleander plants safely, and report any violations. The authority also advised against touching or eating any unknown plants. In the event of exposure to or contact with an unknown plant, the public must contact Poison and Drug Information Services (PDIS) hotline at 800424, available 24/7. All establishments and individuals must adhere to the ban and ensure […]
3 hours ago
Emirates Cancels Flights to and From Iran, Iraq Until October 16
Emirates has cancelled its flights to and from Iran and Iraq until October 16, 2024, amid rising regional tensions. Flights to Iraq’s Baghdad and Basra cities and Iran’s Tehran will be suspended during this period, the airline said. Customers transiting through Dubai with final destinations in Iraq and Iran will not be accepted for travel at their point of origin up to and including 16 October. Previously, flights to and from Iran were cancelled until October 8. On the other hand, Emirates’ flights to and from Lebanon remain cancelled up to and including 15 October. The cancellations come amid fears of Israeli retaliation after Iran’s missile attack on Israel last Tuesday. Iran has vowed a stronger response if its infrastructure is attacked. The carrier also banned pagers and walkie talkies on flights to, from, or via Dubai. This includes prohibition of these devices in check-in or cabin baggage.
3 hours ago
UAE Weather: Light Rain and Strong Winds in Parts of Ras Al Khaimah, Al Ain, and Ajman
Light rain hit some parts of the UAE this afternoon. The Met Office has issued a yellow alert for cloudy weather in Ras Al Khaimah, internal parts of Ajman, and some parts of Al Ain. According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) updates, light to moderate rain was reported over Jabal Jais, Khatt, and Seih Al Bana areas of Ras Al Khaimah, and the Manama area in Ajman. The NCM alert indicates that cloud formation with rainfall is expected over some eastern and northern areas, and may extend over some internal areas from 1 to 7pm today. Be on the lookout for strong winds, with speeds reaching up to 50 km/hr, causing dust storms at times. View this post on Instagram A post shared by المركز الوطني للأرصاد (@officialuaeweather) According the NCM, the current weather situation, which began on Sunday, is caused by a “surface low-pressure system from the East, accompanied by an extension of an upper air low-pressure system”. Cloudy and rainy weather over the past few days also caused a slight decrease in temperatures across the country. The lowest temperature recorded this morning in the UAE was 19.6 degrees Celsius in the Jais mountains in Ras Al […]
4 hours ago
Saudi Arabia’s Flyadeal Announces Flash Sale With SR1 Flight Tickets
Saudi Arabia’s Flyadeal has announced a flash sale on domestic flights with tickets available for just SR1 ($0.27). The 24-hour sale is launched to celebrate the airline’s achievements in a global aviation punctuality report. According to a report by the independent website Cirium, which specialises in monitoring flight operations, Flyadeal has outperformed major and budget airlines in the world to lead the performance of a high performance rate of 95.99 per cent in on-time performance for departures for the month of September 2024. Flyadeal flash sale To celebrate this achievement, passengers will be able to book flights on all Flyadeal routes for SR1 one-way during the promotion period, excluding taxes and additional fees. The offer ends on October 9 at 7pm and covers travel between November 18, 2024 and March 9, 2025. Stephen Greenway, CEO of flyadeal, said: “We are proud of this achievement, which highlights the great efforts on the operational side of our team of cabin crew and engineers, along with our route planners in the head office, in addition to our airport partners across our network, through which we aim to put comfort, safety and operational excellence at the heart of our daily flying program. “To receive this recognition in […]
4 hours ago
“Lawless Narco-State”: Mexican Mayor Decapitated Just Six Days Into Office
The severed head of a newly elected mayor in southern Mexico was found on top of his vehicle just six days into his tenure. Footage of the gruesome scene was shared on X, highlighting Mexico as a lawless narco-state run by ultra-violent cartels. On Sept. 30, Alejandro Arcos was sworn in as the mayor of Chilpancingo, the capital and second-largest city of the Mexican state of Guerrero. The newly elected mayor didn’t even last a week because, on Sunday, he was assassinated, with his head severed and placed on the top of the vehicle as a reminder to local government officials that cartels run the show. Mexican cartel decapitates Alejandro Arcos Catalán, Mayor of Chilpancingo, Guerrero, just six days after assuming office. pic.twitter.com/VlOXKC7nnk — Trending Explained (@TrendingEx) October 7, 2024 Arcos represented an opposition coalition that included the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI). His party took to social media, calling the assassination of the mayor a “cowardly crime.” PRI called for justice early this week. “Enough of violence and impunity! The people of Guerrero do not deserve to live in fear,” PRI wrote on X. Just three days before Arcos’ killing, another city official, Francisco Tapia, was killed, according to PRI president Alejandro Moreno. […]
4 hours ago
Driving the Blockchain Momentum: An Interview With Binance MENASAT’s Bader Kalooti
In this exclusive interview with Bader Al Kalooti, Regional Growth & Operations Lead for Binance MENASAT, we get an insider’s look at the highly anticipated Binance Blockchain Week in Dubai. Bader gives us an insight into this year’s theme, “Momentum,” while discussing breakthrough trends in blockchain and how Binance is leading the charge in shaping the future of digital assets in the MEASAT region. Find out how this global event is set to spark innovation, connect industry leaders, and accelerate the region’s role as a powerhouse in the world of decentralized finance. Binance Blockchain Week is just around the corner, what will the event focus on this year? As Binance Blockchain Week returns to Dubai with gusto, the theme for this year has been aptly named ‘Momentum’. This not only highlights the Middle East’s imperative role in the global digital economy but is also an ode to the ways in which blockchain technology and the decentralized financial industries have evolved—and the further growth we aim to achieve in the years ahead. With new technology emerging and countries worldwide gradually easing regulatory restrictions, the industry’s community has grown by leaps and bounds, paving the way for easier entry for newcomers and […]
6 hours ago
GACA Slaps SR8.7 Million Fines On Erring Air Carriers
The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) announced on Tuesday the imposition of financial fines against entities and individuals for their violation of various provisions of the Civil Aviation Law and its executive regulations as well as instructions issued by the authority. The total value of the fines slapped on the airlines, which violated the regulations, amounted to SR8.7 million. The GACA revealed this in its report for the third quarter of 2024. Penal actions against the airlines were taken by the Committee for Reviewing Violations of the Provisions of the Civil Aviation Law. It noted that the number of decisions issued by the committee reached 197 decisions. The authority indicated that during the third quarter of the current year, it monitored 177 violations issued against air carriers for not complying with the Passenger Rights Protection Regulations, and the penalties for these violations included fines amounting to SR8.5 million. It monitored four violations issued against air carriers for not complying with the instructions of the GACA for which the fines amounted to SR150,000. The authority monitored three violations due to the licensed companies’ failure to comply with the authority’s instructions and civil aviation regulations, and for which they were slapped […]
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