The GCC has approved a unified tourist visa allowing travel across all six member states, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait, with a single entry. Expected to launch soon, the visa aims to boost tourism, "bleisure" travel, and regional GDP. Industry leaders hail it as a transformative step for economic integration and job creation across the Gulf.
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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.
Matt Gaetz criticised leaders and media pushing for a US involvement in the Israel-Iran conflict, suggesting it resembles the lead-up to the Iraq War and is driven by Israel's desire for regime change. He argued that focusing on Iran's alleged nuclear ambitions is hypocritical, given Israel's undeclared nuclear program. He further argued that if Israel gave up its nuclear weapons, Trump would win the Nobel Peace Prize.
Israeli airstrikes have significantly damaged Iran's uranium-conversion facility at Isfahan, according to the IAEA, potentially delaying Iran's uranium fuel cycle. While the Fordow enrichment complex and Natanz facility remain largely intact, the disruption to Isfahan's conversion capabilities could freeze Iran's ability to produce additional enriched uranium, limiting its capacity to scale up production despite existing stockpiles.
Fresh doubts surround the 2024 US election as reports allege unannounced changes to voting machines approved by Pro V&V, a federally certified testing lab. Despite director Jack Cobb's insistence that updates were minor, watchdogs like SMART Elections claim inadequate testing raises security risks.
On June 14, 2025, Washington, D.C., will host a grand celebration for the US Army's 250th anniversary, coinciding with President Trump's 79th birthday. The day features a festival on the National Mall with military demonstrations, live music, and interactive exhibits. A military parade will march down Constitution Avenue, showcasing troops, equipment, and flyovers.
Amidst escalating protests against President Trump's immigration policies, the White House vows to restore order, denouncing demonstrators as “insurrectionists.” Following ICE raids in Los Angeles, violence erupted, prompting military intervention and criticism from California's Democratic leaders. Trump pledges to “liberate” the city, while his administration accuses local officials of failing to protect citizens and fueling unrest.
A US- and Israel-backed relief group, Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), reported a deadly attack on its aid workers in southern Gaza, accusing Hamas of targeting them. At least five workers were killed while distributing aid. GHF condemned the attack, holding Hamas responsible, while Hamas rejected the accusations, questioning GHF's neutrality.
Following Israeli strikes on Iranian targets, UAE airlines have suspended flights to numerous Middle Eastern, Caucasian, and Central Asian destinations. Emirates, Etihad, flydubai, and Air Arabia have halted services to countries including Iran, Iraq, and Israel, causing significant disruptions at Dubai airports. Passengers are advised to check flight status and arrive early as airlines work to manage the evolving situation.
Authorities are searching for Vance Boelter, suspected of fatally shooting former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, and wounding Senator John Hoffman and his wife in politically motivated attacks. Disguised as a police officer, Boelter targeted the lawmakers, leaving behind a manifesto. The incident has sparked widespread concern, prompting increased security measures and a nationwide response, including FBI involvement.