Kuwait has started a new electronic travel permit system. This is for expatriates working in the private sector. The system launched on July 1, 2025. Workers need employer approval to leave. They must use the Sahel Individuals app. Employers use the As-hal Companies portal. Airlines warn that flights will be cancelled without the permit.
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Donald Trump and Melania Trump welcomed Edan Alexander, the last living American hostage held in Gaza, to the White House. Alexander, an American-Israeli abducted by Hamas on October 7, 2023, was held for 584 days before his release on May 12, 2025. Trump reaffirmed his commitment to bringing all hostages home, having previously met with other freed hostages in March.
Marco Rubio criticizes calls in Iran for the arrest of IAEA chief Rafael Grossi. He supports the IAEA's work in Iran. Tensions are high after strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. Iran might limit IAEA cooperation. Grossi warns Iran is close to having nuclear weapons. US and Iran may hold talks soon. Iran's uranium is near weapons-grade level.
An Israeli airstrike in Gaza resulted in at least 20 Palestinian deaths, according to local health officials. The strike targeted a tent encampment in Khan Younis and Jabalia. Amidst the violence, US President Donald Trump stated he anticipates a response from Hamas within 24 hours regarding his "final proposal" for a ceasefire in Gaza.
Prince Harald von Hohenzollern, 63, tragically passed away from sudden cardiac arrest in Namibia while on a business trip. His wife, Princess Josefa von Hohenzollern, announced the news, expressing her profound grief and decision to suspend her mayoral re-election campaign in Leonberg. Expecting their first child soon, she will take time to mourn and care for their unborn child.
The Tokara island chain in southern Japan has experienced over 900 earthquakes in the past two weeks, causing sleepless nights and anxiety for residents. While no major damage has been reported, the Japan Meteorological Agency held an emergency conference, unable to predict when the seismic activity will cease. The region previously saw a similar surge in earthquakes in September 2023.
The UAE has emerged as a key hub for global gold trade. Data shows gold exports reached Dh196 billion in 2024-25. The nation strategically sits between Asia, Africa, and Europe. Switzerland, the UK, and India are top buyers. The UAE exports gold bars, coins, jewellery, and more. This diversity attracts various international buyers.
The Madre Fire in California has surged to become the state's largest active wildfire, engulfing approximately 70,800 acres north of Santa Barbara. Ignited on Wednesday, the blaze rapidly expanded, charring parts of Los Padres National Park and prompting the closure of the Carrizo Plain National Monument.
A multi-story residential building collapse in Karachi, Pakistan, has resulted in a tragic death toll of 16, with rescue operations ongoing for a second day. Emergency officials are using heavy machinery to search for at least eight more survivors believed to be trapped under the debris.
Bangladesh's Attorney General stated that individuals convicted by the International Crimes Tribunal are barred from elections. This declaration precedes the upcoming national polls and follows the tribunal's sentencing of Awami League chief Sheikh Hasina. The Attorney General also asserted the ICT's authority over individuals and organizations involved in crimes against humanity.