He added: “There is more to do, and we are doing it… we have effectively changed the face of the Middle East . Our enemies, Iran and the axis of evil, came to destroy us, and now they are simply fighting for their survival.”

Netanyahu was accompanied by Defence Minister Israel Katz, Israel Defence Forces Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, and Northern Command head Major General Rafi Milo, according to reports.

The remarks come as the Lebanese presidency confirmed direct talks with Israel will begin on Tuesday at the US State Department in Washington, even as Israeli airstrikes continue despite a ceasefire agreed last week between the United States , Israel and Iran’s allies.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is pressing for an immediate and stable ceasefire amid a worsening humanitarian situation, while Israel is expected to demand the full disarmament of Hezbollah and tighter border security.

Separately, US Vice President JD Vance held 21 hours of talks with Iran ian officials in Islamabad, which ended on Sunday without agreement. Vance said the outcome was “bad news for Iran, much more than it's bad news for the United States."

According to Netanyahu, the talks would focus on the disarmament of Hezbollah and the possibility of reaching what he described as a “sustainable, historic” peace agreement between the two countries.

"The ceasefire between the US and Iran offers an opportunity to prevent further loss of lives between Lebanon and Israel. We urge all concerned to abide by the ceasefire. Now is the time to pursue talks to resolve outstanding differences and work towards a permanent ceasefire and a long-term solution to the conflict," Haq said.

He also added that UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon continued to be affected by the violence . It said six UNIFIL personnel were injured on Thursday after rocket and artillery fire near Atteri in Sector West, with one suffering a shrapnel wound and five others affected by acoustic trauma. UN vehicles were also damaged.

Separately, the UN said Israeli forces briefly detained a UNIFIL peacekeeper after blocking a logistics convoy, before releasing the person less than an hour later following direct intervention by mission officials. The organisation said the detention violated international law and called for an immediate end to any intimidation or interference with its peacekeeping operations.

Demographic estimates show that Muslims make up roughly 59% of Lebanon’s population, Christians around 34%, Druze about 5%, and Alawites approximately 1%, with small numbers belonging to other groups.

Sunni and Shia Muslim communities dominate much of the south, the Bekaa Valley, and parts of the north. Christian populations remain concentrated in Mount Lebanon, parts of Beirut, and the north-central regions. Druze communities are largely clustered in the Chouf Mountains and surrounding areas, while Alawites are concentrated near Tripoli in the north.

This religious geography is inseparable from Lebanon’s confessional political system, established under the National Pact of 1943, an unwritten agreement that shaped the post-independence state. The pact formalised power-sharing among religious groups based on demographic realities at the time, granting Christians a leading political role while recognising Muslim participation in governance.

After 15 years of civil war , the system was recalibrated by the Taif Agreement of 1989–1990, which shifted greater executive power to the Council of Ministers and introduced parity between Christian and Muslim representation in parliament.

Under the current framework, the country’s top offices remain allocated by religious affiliation : the president must be a Maronite Christian, the prime minister a Sunni Muslim, and the speaker of parliament a Shia Muslim.

Parliamentary seats and senior public-sector positions are also divided along sectarian lines. While this structure was intended to guarantee inclusion and stability, critics argue it has institutionalised patronage networks, weakened state accountability, and made reform exceptionally difficult.

What the above map makes clear is why this system endures despite widespread frustration. Lebanon’s religious communities are not confined to isolated enclaves; they overlap in cities, towns, and strategic regions.

Any attempt to alter the balance of power risks being interpreted as a zero-sum game for one group and a loss for another. In a country still shaped by memories of civil war and ongoing regional tensions, even modest political shifts can quickly become destabilising.

As Lebanon struggles with economic collapse , political paralysis, and spillover from regional conflicts, its religious map remains a critical lens for understanding both the country’s fragility and its resilience. The same diversity that complicates governance has also sustained Lebanon’s pluralistic identity for decades, making it a rare, if imperfect, experiment in coexistence in a deeply divided region.

“For a small country like Lebanon, that’s really, really significant,” one aide stated.

The U.S. remains one of Lebanon’s main international backers, aiming to bolster its official security institutions in the fight against terrorism and reduce Hezbollah’s sway.

President Joseph Aoun pressed for more support in talks with U.S. Central Command Chief Adm. Brad Cooper during the UN General Assembly last week, emphasising the need to extend state authority nationwide.

The funding announcement came as Hezbollah openly defied a government ban on public commemorations of its slain leader Hassan Nasrallah, projecting his image onto Beirut’s Raouche landmark. The move highlighted the state’s limited capacity to enforce its decisions, a concern raised by Arab and Western diplomats.

The Pentagon has said the latest package will help the LAF implement last year’s ceasefire with Israel and counter Iranian-backed groups.

According to data from the Pew Research Centre , the percentage of Christians varies widely by country, from a tiny fraction in places like Iran (0.2%) and Yemen (0.2%) to large communities in Lebanon (31%) and Cyprus (78%).

Where Christians live in the Middle East

By contrast, Turkey (0.5%), Iraq (0.8%), Iran (0.2%), and the Palestinian territories (1%) have only small Christian populations today, a steep decline from the early centuries of Christianity.

Historical shifts and decline

Christianity’s presence in the Middle East has been shrinking for decades due to migration, conflict, and discrimination. Civil wars in Iraq and Syria forced millions of Christians to flee. In countries like Egypt , many Copts face social and political pressures that drive emigration.

According to Open Doors International , persecution remains a major concern. Churches in several countries face restrictions, and open expression of faith is often limited.

Interestingly, the Gulf states show higher percentages of Christians, but most are not indigenous communities. Migrants from the Philippines, India , and Africa form the backbone of Christian populations in places like Qatar, Bahrain, and the UAE.

“This man wants the weapons handed over to Israel,” Qassem said, in reference to Barrack. “Anyone calling today for the surrender of weapons, whether internally or externally, on the Arab or the international stage, is serving the Israeli project.”

The comments come amid renewed U.S. efforts to push for Hezbollah’s disarmament, a longstanding point of tension between Washington and the Iran-backed group. In recent months, American officials have increased pressure on Lebanese authorities, warning that continued Hezbollah armament poses a threat to regional stability and undermines state sovereignty.

Qassem also appeared in Tehran a day earlier, on July 29, where he met with Iran ’s newly inaugurated president.

The U.S. has designated Hezbollah a terrorist organisation, while Hezbollah insists its weapons are necessary for defending Lebanon against Israeli aggression.

The figures, visualised by World Visualized, show that nearly 50 countries support the UN peacekeeping mission, but a handful provide the lion’s share of boots on the ground. UNIFIL has played a key role in monitoring the ceasefire line (Blue Line) between Israel and Lebanon since its mandate was expanded in 2006 following the Israel–Hezbollah war.

The top 10 contributors to the UNIFIL peacekeeping mission are:

Indonesia - 1,255 peacekeepers

Italy - 1,098

India - 902

Ghana - 878

Nepal - 876

Malaysia - 831

France - 749

Spain - 690

China - 484

Ireland - 335

These nations collectively represent the core of UNIFIL’s personnel, tasked with de-escalation, patrolling the border, and supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) in maintaining peace and humanitarian access.

Indonesia’s significant troop contribution reflects its longstanding commitment to global peacekeeping. The country has been active in various UN missions and views participation in UNIFIL as part of its broader strategy to promote international peace and security.

Aoun called the regional climate “delicate” and emphasised that Lebanon’s focus must remain on stability and economic recovery after years of financial collapse and war-related destruction.

Prime Minister Nawaf Salam echoed the sentiment, condemning Israel’s recent strikes on Iranian targets but warning that the fallout could destabilise not only the Middle East but global peace .

He reiterated Lebanon’s position to “prevent being dragged into a regional war,” particularly to avoid jeopardising efforts to rebuild the south and restore state authority.

The concern stems from fears that Iran-backed groups operating in Lebanon, primarily Hezbollah and Hamas, could retaliate on Iran’s behalf. Both groups have fired rockets into Israel from Lebanese territory during the Gaza war, prompting Israeli reprisals.

Israel’s surprise airstrikes on Friday, June 13, marked the most intense escalation yet in its decades-long conflict with Iran.

Over three days, Israel bombed more than 100 high-value sites across Iran, including missile bases, nuclear facilities, and military command centres, killing senior commanders and at least six nuclear scientists.

The strikes continued through the weekend, claiming control of the airspace over Tehran and hitting over 80 additional targets, including the defence ministry, missile launchers and civilian areas, killing at least 244 people, according to The Guardian .

Iran responded with missile barrages on Israeli cities, killing at least 14 and injuring nearly 400. Missiles hit Tel Aviv, Haifa, and other areas, including a deadly strike in Bat Yam.

Iran warned Western powers, especially the U.S., U.K., and France, not to intervene militarily or face retaliation.

Such attacks "play into the hands of Hezbollah," Macron said after a meeting with new Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, and following Lebanese official media reports of an air strike on south Beirut, the first such raid since a November ceasefire largely halted hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah.

On Monday, January 20, Kuwait dispatched its eighth aid plane to Syria, delivering 10 tonnes of food and essential supplies to help Syrians endure the harsh winter. According to Arab News , this effort is part of the "Kuwait Is By Your Side" campaign, initiated by the Al-Salam Association charity in collaboration with the ministries of Social Affairs, Foreign Affairs, and Defense. The aircraft, which landed at Damascus International Airport, carried food aid and winter supplies, including blankets and heavy clothing.

Light Commercial Vehicle Modifiers Market is expected to reach US$ 184.64 m by 2032

Moving on to economic developments, the Kuwait light commercial vehicle (LCV) modifiers market is projected to reach approximately US$ 184.64 million by 2032, showing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.27%. This growth is largely driven by a significant demand for vehicle customization, alongside the expansion of logistics and e-commerce sectors, technological advancements, and progressive government initiatives promoting eco-friendly vehicles,  OpenPR  reports.

Residency law violations

In regulatory news, the Ministry of Interior (MOI) in Kuwait has enacted new measures concerning residency law violations. These regulations entail various fines for non-compliance, particularly concerning the reporting of newborns, securing residency permits, and adherence to visa stipulations.  Deloitte  has advised strict compliance with these regulations to avoid significant financial penalties, suggesting that timely actions regarding residency permits are paramount.

800m barrel offshore oil discovery

In a major announcement, the Kuwait Oil Company disclosed the discovery of 800 million barrels of medium-density oil offshore, which could potentially enhance Kuwait's energy sector stability and economic prospects, according to Quantum Commodity Intelligence .

Kuwait set to stage a strong rebound

Finally, Kuwait is on the brink of a robust economic rebound, shifting from a resource-based economy to a knowledge-driven one as part of its long-term development strategy. The forecast indicates significant GDP growth of 3.3% this year, following a 2.7% contraction in 2024. This anticipated growth is underpinned by rising oil output and infrastructural enhancements, with key sectors such as energy, tourism, and infrastructure expected to drive future economic expansion. Projections for 2025 estimate a GDP per capita of $33,238 and central bank reserves amounting to $54.4 billion, signalling a positive trajectory for the nation’s economy, Khaleej Times reports.

Officials, including Refugees and Returnees Service Director General Teyiba Hassen and representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, welcomed them home.

Teyiba said the Ethiopian government is working to bring back citizens living in tough conditions in other countries.

"We will continue helping more Ethiopians return home," she told local reporters .

Siraj Rashid, the Ministry’s Director General for Consular Affairs, said this is part of an ongoing effort. He mentioned that 700 citizens had already been repatriated recently due to the situation in Beirut.

Ethiopia’s efforts to help its citizens abroad are being carried out in collaboration with various organisations.

On January 9, 2025, the Lebanese parliament elected General Joseph Aoun, the head of the army, as the country's 14th president. This election is seen as a significant step towards stabilising the nation, which has been grappling with economic and political crises.

General Aoun's election is notable for several reasons. Firstly, he is the first president since the 1990s not to be pre-approved by Tehran and Damascus, signalling a shift in Lebanon's political landscape and a weakening of Hezbollah's influence.

Secondly, his presidency is expected to focus on regaining the state's monopoly on the use of force and pursuing accountability and reforms.

His presidency has also been widely welcomed, ending a more than two-year vacancy that left the nation in a state of uncertainty.

Saudi Arabia has launched the second phase of its air bridge to Lebanon, aimed at providing humanitarian aid to those displaced by Israeli strikes. The initiative, directed by King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, involves sending 27 planes with essential supplies including food, shelter materials, medical aid, and winter supplies. As reported by Arab News , this mission was coordinated with Lebanese authorities and will assist over 1.6 million people, focusing on various health and shelter projects in collaboration with international and local organisations. Key support includes enhancing medical facilities and increasing bakery production in areas with many displaced individuals.

Nokia launches NextGen Lab in Riyadh

Nokia has opened a 'NextGen Lab' in Riyadh to support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 digital transformation goals. Located in the Laysen Valley tech district, the Lab provides an interactive space for businesses to explore advanced mobile network technologies such as Open RAN and 5G. It aims to accelerate the adoption of flexible, interoperable networks and develop smart city applications that promote operational efficiency and security. Zawya reports that the Lab also focuses on environmentally friendly technology to support Saudi Arabia's sustainability targets. Open to partners across the Middle East and Africa, the initiative underscores Nokia's commitment to contributing to the region's digital growth.

Indian man on drug charges handed death penalty

A court in Saudi Arabia sentenced Zaid Junaid, a 35-year-old man from Meerut, India, to death for drug trafficking, causing distress among his family. The Indian consulate confirmed Zaid's conviction, and his family is considering a mercy plea. Zaid, who moved to Saudi Arabia in 2018 to work as a driver, was arrested in January 2023 after police allegedly found 700 grams of narcotics in his vehicle. His family believes he has been wrongfully accused and is seeking intervention from the Indian government for his release, DH reports.

Air France-KLM to expand footprint in Saudi Arabia

Air France-KLM is expanding its presence in Saudi Arabia by launching a new service between Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Riyadh in the summer of 2025, following an agreement with the Saudi Air Connectivity Program. This initiative will enhance connectivity as all three airlines in the group (Air France, KLM, and Transavia) will operate in the Kingdom. According to the Middle East Economy , The Saudi Air Connectivity Programme aims to boost tourism through improved air travel options. Additionally, Air France-KLM and Saudi Arabia's national carrier, Saudia, signed a strategic memorandum to enhance cooperation in passenger transport and aircraft maintenance, expanding codeshare agreements and improving customer experience.

First sustainable aviation fuels plant

Aramco, TotalEnergies, and the Saudi Investment Recycling Company (SIRC) are partnering to assess the development of Saudi Arabia's first sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) plant in the Eastern Province. This initiative aims to utilise local waste, such as used cooking oils and animal fats, to produce SAF, supporting Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and Green Initiative by promoting sustainability and emissions reduction in the aviation sector. The collaboration aims to address the growing demand for air travel while contributing to the circular economy and advancing low-carbon solutions in aviation, reports ESG News .

"I rejoice at the ceasefire that has been reached in recent days in Lebanon and I hope that it can be respected by all parties," he said. "In this situation, I address an urgent invitation to all Lebanese politicians so that a President of the Republic may be elected immediately and the institutions may return to their normal functioning to proceed with the necessary reforms and assure the country of the role of the example of peaceful coexistence between the different religions."

Lebanon has been without a president since Michel Aoun's term ended in October 2022. The prolonged leadership vacuum has hindered the country's ability to address pressing issues and implement reforms.

The Pope's call comes at a time when the country is navigating a fragile ceasefire, and the election of a president is seen as a pivotal move to stabilise the nation.

Lebanese parliamentary speaker Nabih Berri, however, has scheduled a presidential election for January 9, 2025, to end the two-year leadership void.

The election is expected to be a crucial step towards re-establishing normal governmental functions and ensuring Lebanon's role as a model of peaceful coexistence among different religious communities.

"We are returning to these heroic suburbs, the suburb of (slain Hezbollah leader) Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah... We returned thanks to them," said engineer Nizam Hamade, speaking to AFP as he made his way back to his home.

The ceasefire , brokered with US involvement, outlines a 60-day timeline for Israeli forces to withdraw from Lebanon. As part of the agreement, the Lebanese army will assume control of territories in the country's south to prevent Hezbollah from rebuilding its military capabilities, according to US President Joe Biden.

Hezbollah marked the occasion by organising press tours across its strongholds in south Beirut, as well as southern and eastern Lebanon.

The conflict escalated dramatically on September 23, when Israel intensified its bombing campaign on Hezbollah strongholds following nearly a year of intermittent cross-border fire tied to the Gaza war. Ground troops soon crossed into southern Lebanon, compounding the devastation.

The turning point came on September 27, when a large-scale Israeli airstrike killed Hezbollah's charismatic leader, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, in south Beirut.

According to Lebanon's health ministry, the war has claimed more than 3,800 lives in the country since October 2023, with the majority of deaths occurring since September.

Borrell made the remarks on Sunday, November 24 during a visit to Beirut, expressing deep concern over Lebanon’s fragile state following months of conflict.

Borrell, who had visited Lebanon earlier in September to prevent further escalation, highlighted the severe toll the ongoing clashes have had on the country. "Back in September, I came with the hope that we could prevent a full-fledged war with Israel attacking Lebanon. Two months later, Lebanon is on the brink of collapse," the AFP quoted Borrell.

Lebanon, once a relatively peaceful country, has seen its infrastructure, including vital hospitals and water supplies, severely damaged by the recent conflict.

As the situation worsens, the international community, including the EU, has expressed increasing concern about Lebanon's future, urging all parties involved to seek a ceasefire and de-escalate tensions.

"We support and stand by any decision made by the Lebanese resistance [Hezbollah] or the Lebanese government," Larijani was quoted by the AFP.

"Hezbollah is a solid and rational movement, and the Lebanese are great people. Hezbollah [leaders] know how to act. As we have stated, we will support the resistance in all circumstances," he added.

"We are ready to end the war in Gaza, but we will be able to do that when our objectives are achieved," Saar said in an AFP footage.

In addition to this revelation, Saar noted that it is so unfair that Israel is not allowed to fully exercise its rights of self-defence, citing legal proceedings at the International Criminal Court (ICC) and International Court of Justice (ICJ).

"This country (Israel) is attacked with an effort to deny its right to self-defence. I see the proceedings in the international legal forums, in the Hague, the ICC and the ICJ, as a part of this effort to deny Israel's right to self-defence," he explained.

However, in the case of a Lebanon ceasefire, the official hinted at "certain progress" in ensuring one with the United States of America.

"We are working with the Americans on the issue," Saar said in response to a question about a possible ceasefire in Lebanon.

The operation, which escalated tensions with Hezbollah, has prompted calls from the international community for a de-escalation. While Saar did not provide further specifics, his comments indicated that diplomatic channels are being pursued to halt the violence.

"We are working with the Americans on the issue," AFP quoted Saar.

Recent diplomatic efforts have been underscored by Syria and Belarus, as they seek to strengthen their parliamentary ties. Key discussions between Syrian Foreign Minister Bassam Sabbagh and Belarusian Parliamentary Chairman Natalia Kochanova revolve around the importance of parliamentary diplomacy. As reported by SANA , they highlighted a robust partnership in addressing mutual challenges like external interference and unilateral sanctions, showcasing a commitment to broader collaboration across political, economic, and humanitarian sectors.

Issues of border crossings

The strategic importance of the over 130 land border crossings between Syria and Lebanon has been brought to light. Primarily serving Hezbollah's operational needs and smuggling activities, these crossings include six official outlets. However, numerous unauthorised crossings operate beyond regulatory oversight, particularly in the Bekaa Valley. Recent Israeli military actions have focused on curtailing arms smuggling through targeted operations at various crossings, notably Al-Masnaa, Jusiyah, and Matraba. The necessity for disrupting the Iranian arms corridor and ensuring international supervision has become apparent, with Syrian military security and Hezbollah's Unit 4400 collaborating closely on smuggling activities, Alma reports.

Human rights abuse

On the humanitarian front, a warning from Human Rights Watch indicates the peril faced by Syrians returning from Lebanon amid the escalating Israel-Hezbollah conflict. Since late September, over half a million people have crossed back into Syria, accompanied by reports of arbitrary detention and abuse upon return, exacerbating the already dire situation for many refugees. The sole operational border crossing has been compromised by Israeli airstrikes, further complicating escape routes and safety measures for returnees, reports Khaleej Times .

US Sanctions

Syria's UN Ambassador Qusay Al-Dahhak has called for an urgent lifting of coercive economic measures imposed by the U.S. and EU on multiple nations, including Syria and Cuba. Stating these measures as violations of international law, Al-Dahhak reaffirmed Syria's support for Cuba against the U.S. blockade and reiterated the nation's commitment to UN resolutions advocating for the cessation of such sanctions, reports SANA .

US airstrikes kill ISIS operatives

U.S. airstrikes targeting ISIS camps in Syria have reportedly resulted in the deaths of up to 35 ISIS operatives, according to U.S. Central Command. CBS News highlights that this action follows joint operations with Iraqi forces against the Islamic State, which, although still posing a threat, is deemed less powerful than in previous years. CENTCOM asserted that the strikes aim to disrupt ISIS's capabilities in planning attacks, with assurances of no civilian casualties reported during these operations.

Since the hostilities in Lebanon intensified, over 19,200 Lebanese refugees have arrived in Iraq, according to the UN refugee agency UNHCR.

The Iraqi government , alongside Shiite religious authorities and the Hashed al-Shaabi—an alliance of pro-Iran former paramilitary groups—quickly mobilized to assist the influx of refugees, providing support and accommodation.

Originally from southern Lebanon, Fawaz described his journey as a series of displacements, having moved from his hometown to Beirut and finally to the capital's outskirts.

In Iraq, Fawaz has been met with generosity and hospitality. "Iraq's government treats us like invited guests, not refugees," he expressed, grateful for the warm welcome extended by local residents.

The solidarity between the Shiite communities of Lebanon and Iraq has been evident, especially as Iraq offers a haven amidst the ongoing Israeli bombardment of Hezbollah positions in Lebanon.

The UN reports that the war in Lebanon has displaced at least 1.3 million people , with over half a million seeking refuge in Syria. Those who remain in Lebanon often find themselves in makeshift shelters, leading many to perceive the influx of Lebanese refugees with suspicion.

However, Iraq has eased entry by extending visas and providing new travel documents for those without passports, and the UNHCR notes that 62 per cent of the arrivals are women and children , many of whom will be able to attend local schools.

In the cities of Najaf and Karbala, where many Lebanese have settled, local authorities have repurposed hotels initially reserved for pilgrims to accommodate the new arrivals. Jalal Assi, who recently moved to Karbala, expressed his hope for improved security in Lebanon so that families could return home.

The director confirmed that the Rafic Hariri facility, the largest public hospital in Lebanon, sustained minor damage, with shattered windows and destroyed solar panels.

Nearby, four buildings were reportedly flattened, and rescuers continued to search for survivors on Tuesday, October 22 raising fears that the death toll could increase. An AFP correspondent at the scene reported hearing a cell phone ringing beneath the rubble.

Resident Ola Eid described the horror from her balcony, recalling how she watched the bombing unfold. "The children were playing in the courtyard... Before they could even catch the candy I tossed them, the first strike hit, then a second. I saw the children ripped apart," she said.

The strikes targeted Beirut's southern suburbs following evacuation warnings, marking the first hit on the Ouzai neighbourhood during the ongoing conflict . The area around Rafic Hariri Hospital, which has seen an influx of displaced individuals, did not receive an evacuation warning.

Nearly a month into the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, at least 1,489 people in Lebanon have died, according to an AFP tally, with over a million others displaced.

Israel conducted airstrikes on Hezbollah's stronghold in south Beirut and the city of Nabatiyeh in southern Lebanon, resulting in six deaths and 43 injuries, as reported by the AFP.

The strikes targeted municipal buildings and were condemned by Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati. In response, Hezbollah attacked an Israeli tank near the border.

The conflict, which began in October last year, has intensified, with Israel aiming to create a buffer zone free of Hezbollah fighters.

The war has displaced 690,000 people in Lebanon and caused significant casualties on both sides. Despite calls for a ceasefire, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains opposed.

"We are fully prepared for a war situation. We are not afraid of war, but we do not want war, we want peace and we will work for a just peace in Gaza and Lebanon," he said.

China has allocated 200 billion yuan ($28 billion) for local government investments in 2023 to meet its economic growth targets, announced by the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC). Despite this support, investors were disappointed by the modest size of the stimulus package, as many had expected more substantial measures amid ongoing economic challenges, such as weak spending and high youth unemployment. CNN explained the government will provide 100 billion yuan from the central budget and 100 billion yuan for projects to aid local governments struggling with debt.

Economic growth

China's economic planner, Zheng Shanjie, expressed confidence in achieving 2024 economic goals despite facing complex internal and external challenges. The National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) plans to bring forward $14.12 billion from the 2025 budget to support local projects amid increasing downward pressure on the economy. According to VOA News , recent stimulus measures have boosted stock market sentiment, although concerns remain about consumer and business confidence, particularly in the struggling housing market. Zheng noted that policymakers will focus on enhancing livelihoods and stimulating domestic demand.

Metal stocks

Metal stocks in India declined sharply , with the Nifty Metal index falling 3.15% to its lowest level since September 24, primarily due to China's lack of new stimulus measures. The National Development and Reform Commission's briefing disappointed analysts expecting substantial fiscal support, instead announcing only a modest CNY 100 billion investment plan. This led to a drop in copper prices, which fell to a two-week low.

Emergency medical supplies to Lebanon

China's aid agency announced it will provide emergency medical supplies to Lebanon in response to the escalating conflict with Israel and Hezbollah. The aid, requested by the Lebanese government, aims to assist with the humanitarian crisis as airstrikes have resulted in numerous casualties. Recently, the Israeli military reported killing Suhail Hussein Husseini, a key Hezbollah logistics commander, raising tensions further amid ongoing strikes between the two sides.

Provisional tariffs on EU brandies

China has imposed provisional tariffs of 30.6% to 39% on European brandies, including Remy Martin and Hennessy, following the EU's approval of duties on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs). The Hindustan Times explained that this retaliatory move aims to bolster China's negotiating position in upcoming talks with the EU regarding tariffs on Chinese EVs. The brandy tariffs, which require importers to deposit the tariff amount with customs starting Friday, stem from a preliminary investigation that found European brandy to be priced below market value in China.

As Monday, October 7, marks the anniversary of Hamas's attack on Israel, which left 1,205 people dead, mostly civilians, more protests are anticipated. Israel's military response has reportedly led to over 41,825 casualties in Gaza, the majority of whom are civilians, according to local health officials and UN sources.

Tensions have escalated with Israel's ground operation in Lebanon, following missile attacks attributed to Iran, raising fears of a broader conflict. The international community remains divided, with both pro-Israeli and pro-Palestinian demonstrations occurring in various locations.

In Rome, a pro-Palestinian protest turned violent, with clashes between demonstrators and police leading to injuries and arrests, according to AFP reports.

In Berlin, police detained 26 individuals at a pro-Israeli event, while a pro-Palestinian rally attracted over 1,000 participants.

In London, the "National March for Palestine" featured chants urging an end to civilian bombings and calls for intervention in Lebanon. Although the rally was mostly peaceful, several arrests were made.

Protests also took place in Dublin, Paris, Madrid, and Cape Town, where demonstrators voiced solidarity with Palestinians. In South Africa, participants called Israel a "racist state," while in Venezuela, protesters outside the UN demanded action against what they labelled the "genocide" of Palestinians.

More protests and commemorations are set for Monday in cities including New York, Sydney, and Buenos Aires. Pope Francis has called for a day of "prayer and fasting for peace," coinciding with an official memorial service in Jerusalem led by Israeli President Isaac Herzog to honour the victims of the conflict.

"We still think that there is a tiny bit of hope on the diplomatic front. Because Lebanon is bombed every day, Beirut is bombed every day, every night, for 24 hours. The Bekaa in Lebanon, the south, we're afraid we're turning into a new Gaza in Lebanon," he told AFP.

Commenting on the deaths of Hezbollah leaders Ismail Haniyeh and Hassan Nasrallah, he said: "It's a criminal attitude, he (Benyamin Netanyahu) murdered Ismail Haniyeh while he was negotiating a ceasefire, and he murdered Hassan Nasrallah while he was negotiating a ceasefire, so he knew what was going to happen. We find what has happened unacceptable, and it has dragged a country and perhaps an entire region into a war that will never end."

The situation in Lebanon has been increasingly volatile , with frequent exchanges of fire between Israeli forces and Hezbollah fighters. This conflict has intensified since Israel's military operations in Gaza began, drawing parallels between the two regions.

The fear is that Lebanon could face a similar fate to Gaza, which has been subjected to severe blockades and military actions for years.

According to a report by Aljazeera , more than 2000 people have been killed in Lebanon from Israeli strikes.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan took a definitive stance against Israel's military operations occurring in Gaza and Lebanon. He condemned these actions and urged for immediate intervention from the United Nations and other respective organisations, warning of potential threats to Turkey if they persist. Erdogan characterised the Israeli government's conduct as genocidal and aggressive, illustrating the urgency for action to counter what he referred to as a "horde of killers."

Evacuation of foreigners from Lebanon

Turkey's Foreign Ministry has announced its coordination with approximately 20 countries to facilitate the evacuation of foreign nationals from Lebanon amidst deteriorating security due to Israel's ground invasion. A specific coordination centre has been established to manage these evacuations effectively, outlining clear guidelines for the movement of individuals through Turkish territory.

Manufacturing industry endures worst slowdown

Turkey’s manufacturing sector is facing significant challenges , as indicated by the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) which fell to 44.3 in September, down from 47.8 in August. This marks the worst slowdown since May 2020, with firms reporting declining demand leading to reduced output and employment levels, alongside a decrease in purchasing. Despite a minor alleviation in inflation measures, high prices continue to hinder demand, evidenced by ongoing contractions, including a notable drop in new export orders over six consecutive months.

Parliamentary commission to summon Netflix

A Turkish parliamentary commission plans to summon representatives from Netflix to address concerns related to the platform's compliance with Turkish laws and content regulations. Turkey ranks among Netflix's top 10 subscriber nations, hence the discussions will focus on ensuring that content aligns with Turkish moral values, akin to prior discussions held with TikTok regarding 'obscene' material. Recent concerns were raised over a Netflix series that allegedly misrepresented Türkiye’s 1974 Peace Operation in Cyprus, prompting Netflix to limit its availability regionally amid these concerns. The commission aims to maintain a balance between protecting individual liberties and ensuring public order.

Recommendation for the use of force against Israel

President Tayyip Erdogan, addressing the UN General Assembly, called for a recommendation for the use of force against Israel should the UN Security Council remain inoperative regarding its aggressive actions. He invoked the 1950 Uniting for Peace resolution, which empowers the General Assembly to step in during Security Council deadlocks. Erdogan expressed disappointment at the lack of robust measures from Muslim countries against Israel's actions, advocating for a worldwide mobilisation to achieve a ceasefire. Additionally, Turkey has suspended trade with Israel and is initiating legal actions against the nation in the World Court.

“We have not observed any penetration by Israeli enemy forces into Lebanese territory,” a Lebanese army source told AFP. Both United Nations peacekeepers and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah also denied that any ground offensive had begun.

In response to the escalating conflict, residents of Haifa, Israel’s third-largest city, voiced their reactions to the Israeli military's actions. Slomi, a vacationer in Haifa, commented, "The land entry to Lebanon should probably be done, but I hope the military action will not expand or be permanent. Just as we knew how to enter, we will also know how to leave quickly."

Another resident, 63-year-old retired doctor Maymon Levi, expressed support for the ground operation. "We had to enter from the ground. The Air Force cannot end the war alone. We know there will be losses, and we hope there won’t be many, but entering Lebanon was necessary," Levi said.

Firefighter Yossi Cohen took a more aggressive stance, stating: "We need absolute silence. That means cleaning the area completely. If we must, we will reach Beirut. We have the patience and the strength—we are the strongest army in the world."

Since the start of Israel’s war on Gaza, which has claimed over 40,000 lives, most of them women and children—Israeli forces and the Iran-backed Hezbollah have been engaged in intense cross-border fighting.

The conflict saw a particularly deadly turn with a massive Israeli airstrike on Beirut that killed Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah on Friday, September 27.

The ongoing tensions have led to multiple evacuations, particularly in southern Lebanon, as the situation continues to unfold with no clear resolution in sight.

In Islamabad, around 4,000 demonstrators gathered, while 3,000 participated in rallies and funeral prayers in Karachi, organized by Shiite Muslim groups, according to AFP reports.

Nasrallah's killing escalates the ongoing conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, which has seen nearly a year of cross-border tensions.

Hezbollah has engaged in low-intensity strikes against Israeli forces since Hamas launched a historic attack on October 7, resulting in over 1,200 deaths, mostly civilians. Israel's military response has led to at least 41,595 fatalities in Gaza, with most victims also civilians, according to figures from the Hamas-run health ministry. The UN has confirmed the reliability of these numbers.

Hundreds of Kenyans in Lebanon are caught in the violent crossfire between Israel and Hezbollah, feeling abandoned amid the escalating conflict. The East African reports that despite the dangerous conditions, the Kenyan government insists all citizens are safe but has yet to announce concrete plans for their evacuation. Kenya's non-resident Ambassador to Lebanon, Halima Mohamud, assured that the embassy remains in contact with the stranded Kenyans, providing them with emergency contacts.

Lecturers’ strike ends 

A one-week strike by lecturers and staff at Kenya’s public universities has ended following a deal with the government. Workers will receive basic salary increases, with a 7% raise workers in job grades 13A, 14A and 15A and 10% for job grades 10A, 11A, and 12A, the Nation.Africa reports. The agreement includes a four percent annual salary increment and covers the 2021-2025 cycle, set to begin in October 2023. The deal was brokered by an inter-ministerial committee led by the Ministry of Labour. 

Starlink mini rolls out in Kenya 

Starlink, Elon Musk's satellite internet company, has launched a more affordable and portable version of its installation package in Kenya, dubbed "Starlink Mini." The hardware kit is priced at Sh27,000 (approximately $200), much lower than the previous standard kit. Monthly service fees remain unchanged, with prices starting at Sh1,300 (approximately $10) for a 50GB limited package, Business Daily Africa reports. "Starlink Mini is now Available in Kenya! Stay connected with high-speed internet at home or on the go," the firm noted in a post on X. This new package allows users to stay connected on the move, expanding internet access in rural and remote areas.  

Kenya leads in sports betting in Africa 

Kenya has the highest number of sports bettors in Africa, according to a recent survey. Football is the most popular sport for betting, with 82.81% of Kenyans participating. Business Insider Africa notes that despite the economic contributions of the industry, governments have raised concerns over its negative impact on youths, many of whom have no stable income. Africa’s online gambling market is expected to grow significantly, reaching $1.85 billion by end of 2024.

817 individuals to be admitted to Kenyan bar 

The Council of Legal Education (CLE) has gazetted a list of 817 individuals for admission to the bar, following their successful completion of the required exams and pupillage. These new lawyers are set to be formally admitted under the Advocates Act, Cap 16, after passing the Advocates Training Programme (ATP) at the Kenya School of Law, the Star reports. The CLE is responsible for administering the Advocates Training Programme (ATP) exam for candidates trained at the Kenya School of Law (KSL).

"I am saddened by the news coming out of Lebanon," the Pope said, urging the international community to take action to stop the conflict. He conveyed his solidarity with the Lebanese people, who have already suffered greatly in recent times.

Pope Francis highlighted the urgent need for efforts to restore peace and stability in the region.

In retaliation, Hezbollah fired missiles at Israeli military bases, with over 180 projectiles and an unmanned aerial vehicle entering Israeli airspace, triggering alarm in Haifa. The Israeli military reported intercepting more than 50 projectiles within 10 minutes on Tuesday morning.

The airstrikes have caused widespread panic in Lebanon, leading many to flee to Beirut.

This latest bombardment is the most severe in nearly a year and has raised international concerns. Israel's operation, termed "Operation Northern Arrows," signifies a shift in focus from Gaza to Lebanon. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed serious concern over the escalation, while the EU’s chief diplomat warned of a potential full-scale war.

Dr. Salah Zeineddine from the American University of Beirut Medical Center described the situation as unprecedented, with surgical rooms running nonstop since the attacks. He emphasised that the injuries are predominantly to the eyes and hands, with many patients facing long-term or permanent disabilities.

"These two days have been pretty stressful on us. The flood of patients that arrived, was like a tsunami. I mean, they arrived around 150, close to 200 patients, within about two hours. All injuries were pretty similar. Eyes, face, hands, fingers, and lower abdomen," he said. "Most of the patients, unfortunately, ended up with permanent and long-term disabilities. And the Lebanese system, as a whole health system, has to measure up to the needs, and the needs are huge. I'm not sure if we will be able to do what we have to do. Time will tell, especially since we're not sure this is the last hit we're gonna get."

Echoing the sentiments of Dr. Salah Zeineddine, the Chairperson of AUBMC Department of Emergency Medicine, Dr Eveline Hitti, shared with AFP that the intent behind the explosion was to disable and not in any way kill.

"This type of attack was perfectly designed not to kill but to disable and maim. So what patients reported to us is that the pager went off. They got an error message. So they picked it up with one hand the error message then apparently asked and requested that they press on something. So now two hands are on the device. So you have two hands held up close to the eyes because they were reading the message, and then it exploded once they pressed that respond to the signal," she explained.

At least nine people lost their lives and nearly 3,000 were injured when pagers used by Hezbollah members exploded simultaneously across Lebanon on Tuesday, September 17.

Iran-backed Hezbollah has pledged to retaliate against Israel, which has denied any involvement in the detonations. The two sides have been engaged in cross-border hostilities since the Gaza conflict flared up last October.

Local fisherman Khaed Sonbol, speaking to the AFP on Nasrallah’s speech, said, "Yesterday, Sayyid Hassan Nasrallah said that Israel is threatening us. They started with the device explosions, and we don't know what they will do next. A fellow brother from the resistance was hit by an explosion just two meters away from us, and it took a long time to evacuate him due to the poor conditions in this country." 

The looming threat of war has also had a direct impact on local businesses. Ziyad Kalo, a stationery shop owner, noted, "People, overall, are afraid. It's back-to-school time, and the demand (for school supplies) is weak because people fear that schools might close. We share the same concerns as everyone else. May God protect this country."

Ahmed Betakji, a Lebanese employee, further added "The fear of war has become an increasing obsession for all Lebanese. We feel that the risk of war is growing day by day and that it is very near. As Lebanese, we wish there would be no war and hope it does not happen."

Hezbollah has accused Israel of being behind the explosions that targeted its operatives' communication devices. The two-day attack reportedly disabled thousands of pagers and radios used by Hezbollah members. 

Hundreds of the wireless devices exploded simultaneously across the country on September 17, hours after Israel’s announcement that it was broadening the aims of the Gaza war to include its fight against Hamas LLy Hexbollah.

The incident led to scores of persons pouring into Lebanese hospitals.

First, unlike the port blast, we did not have any warning yesterday, there wasn’t a big explosion or anything similar. All of a sudden, hospitals started receiving a large number of injured individuals in the emergency room. Within half an hour, around 2,750 to 2,800 wounded people were pouring into hospitals," Firass Abiad was quoted by the AFP.

"Among the 2,750 patients [injured], around 750 were in the south, approximately 150 were in the Beqaa area, and around 1,850 were in Beirut and its southern suburbs," he added.

Abiad commended the hospitals' quick response to the crisis, stating, "The hospitals did a great job yesterday. A lot of them, including this one, cancelled surgeries to provide care for the patients. The patients, as I see today, are receiving the best medical care."

Joel Khadrajit, an ER doctor at Hotel-Dieu, described the severity of the injuries: "The injuries were mainly to the eyes and hands, which caused finger amputations, shrapnel in the eyes—some people lost their sight."

She added that the hospital received 80 injured patients. "About twenty of them were admitted to the ICU immediately and were put on ventilators to prevent suffocation due to swelling in their faces. The rest are going one after the other to the operating room. Today, we have 55 surgeries."

The explosions overwhelmed hospitals in areas controlled by Hezbollah, with dozens of casualties reported. According to Health Minister Abiad, the death toll has reached at least a dozen, including children, while nearly 300 others remain critically injured.

In the aftermath of the explosions, Hezbollah has vowed to retaliate against Israel, although Israel has yet to comment on the incident. Earlier, Israel had announced plans to expand its military objectives in its ongoing conflict with Hamas, as AFP reported.

Al Hadath has verified that the individual who was killed is Khalil Al Maqdah, the brother of Major General Munir Al Maqdah, a prominent figure within the Palestinian Fatah movement in the Ain al-Hilweh camp.

As reported by AFP, first responders quickly arrived at the scene, working to extinguish the flames engulfing the car.

This recent strike occurs just weeks after Israel launched another deadly drone raid in Sidon on August 9, which killed Hamas official Samer al-Hajj.

Imam Hussein's death in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD is a pivotal event in Islamic history. His martyrdom is seen as a symbol of resistance against oppression, and it plays a crucial role in shaping the identity of the Shiite community. The Shiite or Shia community consists of Muslims who believe that Hussein’s descendants were the rightful successors to lead the Islamic faith after his death.

In Lebanon, the commemoration of Ashura involves various rituals and activities. Participants often wear black to signify mourning and set up black funeral tents. They carry red flags symbolising Hussein's blood and listen to clerics recount the story of his martyrdom. The atmosphere is sombre, with many participants crying and beating their chests in a display of grief and solidarity.

This year's commemoration also paid tribute to Palestinians amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, which has heightened tensions in the region. Hezbollah, a prominent Shiite militant group in Lebanon, has been actively involved in the conflict, launching attacks against Israel and facing retaliatory strikes.

Factors contributing to stress include economic instability, political turmoil, social issues, and environmental concerns. Here, we explore some of the world's most stressed countries and the reasons behind their high stress levels according to data provided by Gallup.

Afghanistan tops the list as the most stressed country in the world. The nation has been struggling with the aftermath of political upheaval and conflict since 2001, leaving its people in constant worry and uncertainty. The 2024 Gallup Global Emotions Report , which measures life's intangibles like feelings and emotions, found that 68% of Afghans reported experiencing a lot of stress.

Following closely are Lebanon and Sierra Leone. These countries have also been through significant turmoil. Lebanon, in particular, has faced a severe economic crisis, leading to widespread stress among 65% of its population. Sierra Leone also records 61% of its population being stressed.

Other prominent countries on the list include Turkey, Liberia and Sri Lanka. These nations have faced unique challenges, from economic struggles to social and political unrest, contributing to the high-stress levels reported by their citizens. With 60%, 58% and 56% respectively, these countries have high levels of stress.

Interestingly, the report also highlights that stress is not always correlated with a country's wealth. For instance, Greece is noted as the most stressed European nation, despite being a part of the developed world with a 54% representation.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights announced that Israeli missiles targeted the positions of Iranian and Hezbollah militias in the Sayde Zeinab area, Damascus International Airport, and the suburbs of this city.

It is speculated that these positions were weapons and ammunition warehouses but GSW cannot independently verify this claim.

One of the rockets is reported to have hit the headquarters of the militants of the Islamic Republic of Iran in the town of Al-Badhliyeh near Sayeda Zainab. Huge explosions were also heard from the headquarters of the 1st Army in the city of al-Kuswah in the southwest of Damascus where the air defence systems of the Syrian regime are located.

A week ago, Israeli planes bombarded the positions of Hezbollah-affiliated forces and Iranian militias in the areas of Sayeda Zeinab and Hajirah in the south of Damascus.

Following this attack, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced mourning for its two dead members.

In response to this incident, the spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic, Nasser Kanaani, threatened : "The Islamic Republic will respond to any attack."

He emphasized: "No action against Iran and Iran's interests and our advisory forces in Syria will go without a reaction, and those who take action and have taken action have experienced this issue," quotes local media Iran International.

Since the beginning of the war in Gaza, Israel has targeted Syrian territory 30 times, which killed 32 people including 13 members of the Lebanese Hezbollah and two members of the Revolutionary Guards Corps of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

On the other hand, international pressure, especially from the US and France, continues to prevent Lebanon from being drawn into the war in Gaza.

Walid Jumblatt, the leader of the Progressive Socialist Party in Lebanon, has conveyed his strong concern about the spread of conflicts in separate messages to the Hezbollah group and the ambassador of the Islamic Republic in Beirut.

Mojtaba Amani, the ambassador of the Islamic Republic in Beirut, emphasized that the Islamic Republic does not want war or its expansion, and based on the evaluations of the situation in Gaza, Tehran is confident in the capabilities of Hamas to stand against Israel.

The Department of Migrant Workers had previously announced that 124 overseas Filipino workers expressed their desire to return to the Philippines from Lebanon due to escalating tensions between Israel and the Hezbollah militant group, resulting in violence.

Hezbollah, based in Lebanon, claimed responsibility for simultaneous attacks on 19 Israeli positions along the border on Thursday, which triggered a broad retaliatory assault. This incident occurred on the eve of a speech by the leader of Hezbollah, who is backed by Iran, addressing the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Meanwhile, hundreds of foreign nationals escaping the conflict in Gaza have at last managed to enter Egypt, and among them are two Filipinos who are part of an international medical organization.

However, there are still Filipino citizens who remain stranded in the blockaded region.