Doug Emhoff, Kamala Harris's husband, was tasked with securing Taylor Swift's support for the 2024 campaign, a new book reveals. Despite Emhoff's connection to Swift's attorney, she only offered a social media endorsement, disappointing the Harris camp.
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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.
Kamala Harris is the early frontrunner for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination, despite her previous defeat, leading with 26% support. Buttigieg and Newsom trail behind, while JD Vance dominates the Republican field with a significant lead over DeSantis. The poll indicates a fluid political landscape with many voters still undecided.
Iran's foreign minister stated the U.S. is attempting to restart nuclear talks, but Iran is in no hurry and considering its options for negotiations. This follows a previous collapse of talks after an Israeli attack on Iranian nuclear sites. Despite signals from the U.S., including Trump's openness to lifting sanctions, Iran seeks guarantees against future attacks if talks fail.
Amidst escalating tensions, Pakistan's PM Shehbaz Sharif has dismissed nuclear exchange possibilities with India, asserting their nuclear program is for peace and defense. This follows alleged Pakistani "nuclear blackmails," which India vowed to counter bilaterally. Tensions rose further after India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, prompting Pakistan to threaten retaliation.
Saudi Arabia has opened its main stock market, Tadawul, to direct investment by GCC residents for the first time. The move expands access beyond previous limits and is part of wider reforms to attract regional and global investors. It aligns with Vision 2030 goals to diversify the economy, boost market liquidity, and strengthen the Kingdom’s financial leadership in the Gulf.
Saima Wazed Putul, daughter of former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina and WHO regional director, has been placed on indefinite leave starting July 11. This action follows fraud, forgery, and power misuse cases filed against her by Bangladesh's anti-corruption commission four months prior. WHO's assistant director-general Catharina Boehme will serve as the Officer in Charge in her place.
A tense situation unfolded in California during an immigration raid. An anti-ICE protestor allegedly brandished a firearm. This incident occurred at a cannabis farm in Camarillo. Governor Gavin Newsom is facing criticism for his response. Reports indicate a surge in assaults on ICE agents. The FBI is currently searching for the armed suspect.
Tuvalu, a vulnerable Pacific nation, faces submersion within 35 years due to climate change. In response, Australia has initiated the Falepili Union Treaty, offering a 'climate visa' allowing 280 Tuvaluans yearly to migrate for work or study. This prioritizes those lacking other options, like New Zealand citizenship, and includes individuals with disabilities.
Devastating floods in central Texas have resulted in a tragic loss of life, prompting scrutiny of the nation's emergency response. Despite earlier proposals to reduce FEMA's role, the Trump administration is now emphasizing the agency's swift assistance to Texas, with the president approving a major disaster declaration.
In Coney Island, a 36-year-old man, Jonathan Robalino, was arrested for allegedly attempting to kidnap a 6-year-old boy. The suspect, described by police as "emotionally disturbed," was apprehended after the child's parents chased him down and restrained him. The boy was unharmed and the suspect has been charged with assault and attempted kidnapping.