The inaugural Riyadh Comedy Festival faces criticism from Human Rights Watch, which urges performers to speak out against Saudi Arabia’s human rights abuses and repression of free speech

Israel conducted its largest airstrike in Yemen, targeting Houthi military and intelligence facilities in Sanaa after drone attacks on Eilat injured 22 people. Civilian casualties were reported

The indefinite closure of the Allenby Bridge by Israel cuts off the West Bank’s only external gateway through Jordan. The decision has stranded thousands, blocked trade routes, and sparked political and humanitarian criticism amid intensifying Israeli-Palestinian tensions

Petrol prices in the UAE are expected to see minor adjustments in October as global oil markets remain stable. Recent crude supply developments and geopolitical risks continue to shape fuel pricing, directly impacting inflation, business costs, and consumer spending