The White House declared that Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney yielded to President Trump's pressure by withdrawing a digital services tax targeting American tech companies, which had halted trade discussions. Karoline Leavitt stated that Trump's negotiation skills led to Canada's decision. Tensions rose after Trump suggested Canada should become the 51st state.
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GCC nations advocate for a balanced climate strategy, linking environmental goals with development needs, as stated by Ambassador Nasser Al-Hayen. They caution against overly critical views on fossil fuels, stressing the importance of respecting national sovereignty in energy strategies. The GCC calls for inclusive frameworks, rejecting prescriptive models that could undermine global climate agreements.
Kilmar Abrego Garcia faced mistreatment after a mistaken deportation to El Salvador. He alleges severe beatings and psychological torture in prison. Despite a prior order against deportation, the Trump administration deported him. Now back in the US, Garcia faces human smuggling charges. The Justice Department plans to try him before any deportation attempts.
Russia launched a massive drone attack on Kyiv, resulting in casualties and widespread damage, shortly after a call between Trump and Putin. Zelensky and Trump discussed bolstering Ukraine's defenses, including joint production and procurement, amid concerns over paused US missile deliveries. The strikes, which damaged numerous buildings and infrastructure, prompted international concern and discussions about alternative defense support.
British Foreign Secretary David Lammy met with Syria's interim president, Ahmad al-Sharaa, in Damascus, marking the restoration of formal ties after 14 years. The UK pledged £94.5 million in aid for emergency relief, education, and livelihood projects.
Federal prosecutors have indicated that the Trump administration intends to deport Kilmar Abrego Garcia, charged with human smuggling and alleged MS-13 affiliation, to a country other than El Salvador if he's released from jail. His attorneys are fighting to have him returned to Maryland for his ongoing criminal case, fearing swift deportation by ICE.
The next public holiday in the UAE is expected to be the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), likely falling on September 4 or 5, 2025. Thanks to a new law allowing holiday shifts, residents could enjoy a relaxing three-day weekend. This long weekend offers a great chance for a getaway or staycation in early September.
Johnny Noviello, a 49-year-old Canadian citizen in ICE custody at a Miami detention center, was pronounced dead on June 23. He was awaiting removal proceedings following a conviction for racketeering and drug trafficking. Canadian officials have been notified and are seeking further information, while ICE is investigating the cause of death.
In Gaza, Israeli airstrikes and gunfire resulted in the deaths of 23 individuals, including children. The Israeli military stated the campaign aims to dismantle Hamas military capabilities after the October 2023 attack. Airstrikes hit homes and tents sheltering displaced people. The offensive has reportedly killed over 56,500 Gazans and around 1,219 people in Israel.
Oman has been named the most affordable GCC country to live in for 2025, according to Numbeo’s Cost of Living Index. With significantly lower living and rental costs compared to its neighbors, Oman offers an attractive, budget-friendly lifestyle. The UAE remains the most expensive, while Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia rank in between.
Faced with a surge in Russian drone attacks, Ukraine is exploring unconventional defense strategies, including interceptor drones. Russia has increased drone production, modernized its technology, and altered deployment tactics, making it difficult for Ukrainian mobile air defense units to intercept them.