The partnership crystallised in mid-2024, after an assassination attempt on Trump led Musk to shift from critic to donor. He poured nearly $300 million into the Republican war chest, joined the cabinet as head of the meme-friendly Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), and helped package Trumpism for the techno-libertarian crowd. “I love Donald Trump, as much as a straight man can,” Musk once declared.
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Gold prices in Dubai have surged due to escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, prompting investors to seek safe-haven assets. The 24-karat gold reached Dh412.75 per gram, nearing its all-time high, driven by geopolitical uncertainties and a weakening US dollar. This price increase may impact consumer spending habits in the UAE, especially for those purchasing gold jewellery.
The IDF reported intercepting over 100 Iranian UAVs launched towards Israel, while Iranian security forces claimed to discover a secret Israeli drone factory within Iran. Israel's strikes targeted Iranian nuclear scientists, military officials, and weapon production sites, including those belonging to the Quds Force. Amidst the escalating conflict, Israeli citizens are advised to remain near shelters.
The Trump administration is considering expanding travel restrictions, potentially banning citizens from 36 more countries, according to a State Department cable. Citing national security concerns, the move follows an earlier ban on 12 countries. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's cable outlined concerns, including unreliable identity documents, giving countries 60 days to address issues or face entry suspensions.
Senator Alex Padilla was forcibly removed from a Homeland Security press conference in Los Angeles, sparking a political firestorm. The incident occurred when Padilla questioned Secretary Kristi Noem about immigration enforcement, leading to a physical altercation with Secret Service agents. While Republicans criticized Padilla's behavior, Democrats condemned the treatment as an attack on democratic norms and demanded an investigation.
A mob in Bangladesh attacked and vandalized the ancestral home of Rabindranath Tagore following a dispute over parking fees. The incident led to the temporary closure of the Kachharibari, also known as Rabindra Memorial Museum. Authorities have launched an investigation into the attack, forming a three-member committee to submit a report within five days.
Syria implements new swimwear rules. Public beaches and pools now require women to wear burkinis or modest attire. Private locations are exempt from this rule. The decree, issued by the interim government, sparks controversy. Some support the focus on modesty. Others criticise the control over personal choices. The rule raises questions about freedom and cultural values.
A significant 5.9 magnitude earthquake rattled Taiwan, with its epicenter south of Hualien City. Buildings in Taipei swayed for about a minute, but initial reports indicate no major damage. Situated on the Pacific "Ring of Fire," Taiwan is earthquake-prone, having learned from a devastating 1999 quake, implementing stricter building codes and public education.
Ballymena in Northern Ireland witnessed a second night of violence. Masked rioters clashed with police and set properties ablaze. The unrest followed a protest related to an alleged sexual abuse case. Police responded with water cannons and baton rounds. Several officers were injured. Authorities are investigating racially motivated hate crimes. The British government has condemned the violence.
During a "No Kings" protest in Salt Lake City, a peacekeeper opened fire on a man who raised a rifle toward the crowd, tragically killing a bystander. The incident led to panic and a police investigation into the man's motives and the peacekeepers' training. Separately, in Riverside, California, a driver struck a protester and fled the scene.