A record 339,000 fans attended the 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, combining high-stakes racing, a historic Formula 1 finale, and headline concerts by global music stars, marking one of the most successful editions ever staged at Yas Marina Circuit

Iranian security forces have violently arrested Nobel laureate and women’s rights activist Narges Mohammadi, alarming supporters worldwide and prompting urgent calls for her safety, transparency over her whereabouts, and an end to Iran’s widening crackdown on dissent and peaceful activism

The National Centre for Meteorology warns that moderate to heavy rainfall will persist across Saudi Arabia, with thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds posing risks of flash floods in multiple regions. Residents are advised to stay alert and follow safety guidance

Organisers of Seattle’s Pride Match say celebrations will go ahead during the Egypt–Iran World Cup fixture, rejecting pressure after the Egyptian FA demanded FIFA halt LGBTQ+ events planned around the Group G encounter

The landmark Saudi-Qatar rail agreement promises faster travel, billions in economic benefits, and deeper Gulf cooperation. The 785km high-speed line will link Riyadh and Doha, serving millions of passengers and strengthening trade, tourism, and sustainability goals

Bethlehem has lit its iconic Christmas tree once again following a ceasefire linked to the Gaza war. The move signals hope for peace and tourism recovery, even as unemployment, financial strain and regional tensions continue to shape daily life

Seafarers from the sunken Eternity C have been released and evacuated to Oman after being held in Yemen, as renewed Houthi attacks revive fears over Red Sea shipping safety and global trade disruptions amid escalating regional conflict and diplomatic mediation

Max Verstappen says his parents will sit out the Abu Dhabi finale, noting the title fight was never expected late in the season. The Red Bull star enters Yas Marina with renewed championship momentum after McLaren’s Qatar setback

Israel launched new air strikes on towns in southern Lebanon hours after unprecedented direct talks with Beirut, underscoring rising tensions over Hezbollah’s military reconstruction and the fragile ceasefire that has struggled to hold since late 2024

Iran will now attend the World Cup draw in Washington after resolving a visa row with the United States. The reversal follows days of political tension, with coach Amir Ghalenoei and select officials receiving clearance to travel

Public anger over unequal military service is driving Israel toward a critical showdown. A proposed draft law targeting Haredi exemptions has triggered protests, coalition turmoil, and warnings that the crisis may reshape Israel’s political landscape ahead of next year’s elections

The UN Committee Against Torture has released a damning assessment of Israel’s treatment of Palestinian detainees, citing evidence of organised torture, inhumane conditions, and possible crimes against humanity, despite persistent Israeli denials of wrongdoing