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ABU DHABI — In an exclusive interview with ABC New ABU DHABI — In an exclusive interview with ABC News, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation Reem Al Hashimy described Iran’s ongoing military campaign against the Gulf states as "unhinged" and "unprecedented." The Minister expressed disbelief that Tehran would "lash out" at neighbors who have consistently called for de-escalation throughout the regional crisis. ​Since the joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran launched on February 28, 2026, the UAE has "borne the brunt" of retaliatory missile and drone attacks. While Al Hashimy emphasized that UAE territory is not used for offensive operations, Iran has specifically targeted civilian infrastructure, including: ​International Airports in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. ​Commercial Oil Tankers near Fujairah. ​Residential buildings and hospitality hubs like Palm Jumeirah. ​The interview took a pointed turn when the Minister was asked about the role of the U.S. and Israel in initiating the conflict. Al Hashimy notably dodged the question, pivoting instead to the "unlawful" nature of Iran's response. Despite the UAE hosting significant American military bases—targets for Iran due to their proximity—Al Hashimy maintained that the UAE's focus remains on the "irrational" targeting of non-military sites. ​She further highlighted UN Security Council Resolution 2817, co-sponsored by 136 countries, which condemns the attacks on the Gulf. However, she avoided addressing Iran’s long-standing warning: that as long as it cannot strike the American mainland, it will retaliate against U.S. bases in the Middle East.
TEHRAN (March 20, 2026) — The Middle East has spir TEHRAN (March 20, 2026) — The Middle East has spiraled into a high-stakes “energy-for-energy” conflict following a series of unprecedented strikes on critical infrastructure. On Thursday, March 19, Iranian Armed Forces spokesperson Ebrahim Zolfaghari issued a chilling warning, stating that any further aggression against the Islamic Republic’s energy assets would trigger a “much harder” response than previous volleys. The escalation began on March 18, when Israeli airstrikes targeted the South Pars gas field and the Asaluyeh processing hub—the bedrock of Iran’s domestic energy supply. In a swift and multi-pronged retaliation, Iran launched missile and drone barrages hitting: • Qatar: Significant damage to the Ras Laffan LNG complex. • Saudi Arabia: The SAMREF refinery in Yanbu was struck. • Israel: An oil refinery in Haifa and the northern electricity grid sustained damage. • Regional Hubs: Facilities in the UAE and Kuwait were also targeted. Zolfaghari characterized the Israeli strikes as a “big mistake,” asserting that Iran’s retaliatory operations are “ongoing and not over yet.” Global energy markets have reacted with volatility, as Brent crude surged toward $110 per barrel. With both nations now targeting the economic lifelines of the region, the risk of a total regional energy collapse looms.
Dubai, March 19, 2026 — Several Gulf Arab states, Dubai, March 19, 2026 — Several Gulf Arab states, including key US allies, are privately pressing the United States not to halt its military campaign against Iran prematurely, according to regional officials and diplomats cited in multiple reports. Gulf nations did not initially push for war with Iran, but as the conflict—now in its third week—has seen US and Israeli airstrikes intensify alongside Iranian retaliatory missile and drone attacks on Gulf oil facilities, ports, airports, and civilian targets, their stance has shifted. Fears center on the Strait of Hormuz, the critical chokepoint for roughly one-fifth of global oil supplies, which remains vulnerable to Iranian disruption. Sources told Reuters that leaders in these states worry a partial ceasefire would leave Iran capable of threatening shipping lanes, energy infrastructure, and economic hubs vital to their prosperity. "There is a wide feeling across the Gulf that Iran has crossed every red line with every Gulf country," said Abdulaziz Sager, chairman of the Saudi-based Gulf Research Center. "Iran became an enemy" after targeting neighbors, he added. While urging Washington to comprehensively weaken Tehran's military capabilities, Gulf governments have maintained restraint, focusing on defense rather than direct involvement in offensive operations. They have rejected calls to formally join the US-Israeli campaign, despite pressure from US officials seeking regional backing for legitimacy. The escalation has raised global concerns over energy markets and wider instability, with Iran vowing further responses.
Central Beirut Shaken: Airstrike Flattens Bachoura Central Beirut Shaken: Airstrike Flattens Bachoura Apartment Block BEIRUT – In a dramatic escalation of the Middle East conflict, an Israeli airstrike completely leveled a 10-story residential building in the Bachoura district of central Beirut early Wednesday, March 18, 2026. The strike occurred at approximately 5:30 AM, shortly after the Israeli military issued a forced displacement order. Residents were given roughly one hour to evacuate after being warned the site was “located near Hezbollah facilities.” Despite the warning, Lebanese authorities report at least six people were killed and dozens wounded as the building collapsed into a mountain of rubble and dust. This attack marks a significant expansion of the conflict into the heart of the capital, beyond the traditional southern suburbs. Since hostilities reignited on March 2, following the regional escalation involving Iran, over 900 people have been killed in Lebanon. As smoke clears over Bachoura, the humanitarian crisis deepens, with over a million citizens now displaced nationwide.
TEHRAN, March 19, 2026 — A sea of mourners engulfe TEHRAN, March 19, 2026 — A sea of mourners engulfed Tehran today as Iran held a state funeral for Ali Larijani, Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, and General Gholamreza Soleimani. The high-ranking officials were killed in a devastating Israeli airstrike on March 17, marking a violent new chapter in the 2026 Iran War. Larijani had emerged as Iran’s primary political figure following the February 28 assassination of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. His death, alongside top military brass, leaves a massive power vacuum within the Islamic Republic at its most vulnerable moment. The atmosphere was electric with grief and defiance; crowds chanted “Death to America” and “Death to Israel” as flag-draped coffins moved through the capital. With the Strait of Hormuz blockaded and retaliatory missile strikes already launched, the region teeters on the edge of a total collapse of stability.
RIYADH/DUBAI, March 19, 2026 — The economic landsc RIYADH/DUBAI, March 19, 2026 — The economic landscape of the Middle East has reached a breaking point. As the conflict between the U.S.-Israeli coalition and Iran enters its third week, the “Big Four” Gulf economies—Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, and Qatar—have reportedly launched a joint review of their massive overseas investment commitments. The move signals a desperate pivot to protect domestic liquidity as the regional war hammers core revenue streams. In Saudi Arabia, where a $73 billion budget deficit already loomed, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and drone strikes on Aramco’s Ras Tanura refinery have strangled oil exports. Meanwhile, Qatar has declared force majeure on LNG production, and tourism in the UAE has effectively collapsed. This financial retreat poses a severe threat to U.S. interests. During his 2024–2025 outreach, Donald Trump secured hundreds of billions in pledges from these nations intended to fund American infrastructure and manufacturing. Now, Gulf officials are exploring force majeure clauses to legally walk back those promises. With defense spending spiking and Iranian retaliation causing “system-level” damage to energy logistics, the Gulf’s role as the world’s piggy bank is officially on pause.
New Delhi, March 20, 2026 – The primary patent pro New Delhi, March 20, 2026 – The primary patent protecting semaglutide, the powerhouse ingredient in Novo Nordisk’s globally renowned Ozempic and Wegovy, officially expired in India on Friday, March 20, 2026. This landmark development unleashes India’s formidable generic pharmaceutical industry to produce significantly cheaper versions of the GLP-1 agonist drug, which has transformed treatment for type 2 diabetes and obesity worldwide. Industry experts predict retail prices could drop by over 50%, dramatically improving affordability and access for millions of Indian patients. Jefferies, the global investment bank, has dubbed the moment a potential “magic-pill turning point” for the country. The firm projects that, with aggressive pricing and widespread adoption, the domestic semaglutide market could eventually swell to approximately $1 billion annually. Analysts forecast a swift influx of branded generics—potentially 50 or more within the coming months—following the well-established pattern of India’s hyper-competitive pharma sector. A parallel precedent occurred in 2022 when sitagliptin lost patent protection: roughly 30 branded versions hit the market in the first month, ballooning to nearly 100 within a year. Leading Indian companies including Sun Pharmaceutical, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, Cipla, Zydus Lifesciences, and others are already gearing up for rapid launches, setting the stage for intense price competition and wider availability of one of the most sought-after molecules in modern medicine.
TEHRAN — Iran’s newly appointed Supreme Leader, Mo TEHRAN — Iran’s newly appointed Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has issued a stark warning that Israel will face a "decisive and regrettable" retaliation following the targeted killings of three senior security officials within a 48-hour window. The latest casualty, Intelligence Minister Esmaeil Khatib, was reportedly killed in an overnight strike on Wednesday, joining a list of high-ranking losses that includes security strategist Ali Larijani. ​Simultaneously, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has threatened to expand the conflict into a "full-scale economic war." In an urgent communiqué, the IRGC named oil and gas facilities in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE as legitimate targets. The threat is a direct response to Israeli-US strikes on the South Pars gas field, the world’s largest natural gas reserve, which forced the suspension of production at two major refineries. ​With energy security in the region described by local officials as reaching "the point of zero," global markets remain on edge as Tehran signals its intent to strike back at the region's critical infrastructure.
TEHRAN — Despite fourteen days of relentless U.S. TEHRAN — Despite fourteen days of relentless U.S. and Israeli airstrikes under Operation Epic Fury, new U.S. intelligence assessments suggest the Iranian regime is likely to remain in power. The strikes have severely degraded Iran’s missile production and naval capabilities, yet the internal security apparatus remains largely intact. ​According to a report from the National Intelligence Council, the clerical-military establishment has shown unexpected resilience. While the initial wave of attacks on February 28 reportedly killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, the transition to his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, appears to have consolidated hard-line control. ​Analysts warn that while the regime is weakened, there are no overt signs of the “collapse” predicted by some officials. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) continues to exert firm domestic authority, suppressing potential uprisings. For now, Washington’s intelligence community suggests that while the “strategic ledger” favors the coalition, the political termination of the Islamic Republic is not imminent.
In the heart of the African savannah, the video ca In the heart of the African savannah, the video captures a fleeting yet powerful moment in the life of an African lion cub. Standing on rust-red earth dotted with short grasses, the young predator embodies both vulnerability and instinct. Its small frame, oversized paws, and alert amber eyes reveal a creature still learning the rhythms of survival. Lion cubs are born into prides—complex social units typically led by related females and guarded by dominant males. In these open grassland ecosystems, survival depends on cooperation. While the cub in the clip appears playful and curious, this stage of life is critical. Cubs spend their early months observing their mothers, mimicking stalking behavior, pouncing on insects, and engaging in mock fights that refine motor skills essential for future hunts. The savannah ecosystem shapes every habit. Sparse tree cover demands acute awareness; visibility is both an advantage and a risk. Predators like hyenas and leopards pose constant threats to unattended cubs. As apex predators, lions regulate herbivore populations, maintaining ecological balance across vast plains. What seems like an innocent snarl or playful stance in the video is, in fact, nature rehearsing power—an early rehearsal for dominance in one of the planet’s most unforgiving wild landscapes.
A Symphony of Flavors: The Magic of The Hundred-Fo A Symphony of Flavors: The Magic of The Hundred-Foot Journey When the Kadam family settles in a picturesque French village, they don’t just open a restaurant; they ignite a culinary war. Directed by the masterful Lasse Hallström, The Hundred-Foot Journey (2014) is a soulful exploration of how food bridges the gap between disparate cultures. The Storyline The film follows Hassan Kadam, a culinary prodigy whose family opens an Indian eatery directly across from a Michelin-starred French restaurant. The “hundred-foot” distance between them becomes a battlefield of tradition versus innovation, eventually melting into a beautiful fusion of spices and classic techniques. Direction and Atmosphere Hallström brings his signature warmth to the screen, treating every dish like a work of art. The cinematography captures the lush French countryside and the vibrant colors of Indian spices, making the film a sensory feast. A Stellar Cast The casting is perfection: • Helen Mirren shines as the formidable Madame Mallory, balancing icy professionalism with a hidden heart. • Om Puri provides a hilarious and poignant performance as the stubborn Kadam patriarch. • Manish Dayal brings an earnest, quiet brilliance to the role of Hassan, making his journey from a local cook to a world-class chef truly inspiring. The Hundred-Foot Journey reminds us that while we may speak different languages, the palate has a universal tongue.
“War of Choice”: Araghchi Rejects Ceasefire as US- “War of Choice”: Araghchi Rejects Ceasefire as US-Israel Campaign Intensifies TEHRAN (March 17, 2026) — Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has delivered a stinging rebuke to rumors of a truce, declaring that Tehran has neither sought a ceasefire nor initiated negotiations with the United States. The statement, following a candid interview with CBS’s Face the Nation, comes as the joint US-Israeli military campaign—Operations Epic Fury and Roaring Lion—enters its third week. Araghchi dismissed President Trump’s claims that Iran is desperate for a deal, calling such assertions “delusional.” > “We never asked for a ceasefire... we are ready to defend ourselves as long as it takes,” Araghchi stated, characterizing the conflict as a “war of choice” by President Trump. > The Foreign Minister accused the US administration of reckless aggression, suggesting that military strikes on critical infrastructure, including recent “obliteration” of targets on Kharg Island, were being carried out “for fun.” He further warned that nations hosting US assets are no longer neutral, as they “gave their soil” for attacks on Iran. With the Strait of Hormuz remaining effectively closed and casualties mounting on both sides, Araghchi’s defiance underscores a total collapse of diplomacy. Tehran remains dug in, insisting that any resolution must end what they term “illegal aggression” once and for all.
The video perfectly sums up the legendary chaos th The video perfectly sums up the legendary chaos that is Gen Z thinking. In just a few seconds, the person in the clip moves from deep life reflection to casually scrolling, to planning world domination — all while holding an iced coffee like it’s a personality trait. Multitasking? No. It’s called emotional layering. Gen Z priorities are beautifully unpredictable. They want financial freedom, but not at the cost of mental health. They believe in grinding — but only if the grind aligns with “vibes.” Corporate ladder? Maybe. Personal brand? Definitely. Therapy? Non-negotiable. This generation doesn’t just plan careers; they plan exits. Side hustles are backup plans for backup plans. They romanticize productivity but will also cancel plans to protect their peace. What makes it funny is the self-awareness. They know they’re dramatic. They know they overthink. And yet, they’ll turn that overthinking into content. Confused but confident. Stressed but stylish. Broke but branding. That’s Gen Z — rewriting success, one meme at a time.
U.S. President Donald Trump has renewed calls for U.S. President Donald Trump has renewed calls for allied nations to help secure access to the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, amid rising tensions in the Middle East. Speaking ahead of a meeting with the board of trustees at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on Monday, Trump said multiple countries had expressed willingness to assist the United States. “Numerous countries have told me they’re on the way,” the president stated, though he did not name the nations expected to participate in efforts to ensure safe passage through the strait. He added that while some allies were “very enthusiastic,” others appeared more cautious. The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global oil transit chokepoint, and any disruption could have significant economic consequences worldwide. Trump’s remarks come as Washington seeks broader international backing to safeguard maritime routes and stabilize energy markets amid escalating regional uncertainty.
A Palestinian civilian was killed near Abu Dhabi o A Palestinian civilian was killed near Abu Dhabi on Monday after a missile struck a vehicle on the outskirts of the Emirati capital, authorities confirmed. The deadly incident comes amid intensifying regional tensions as Iran continues retaliatory strikes following recent US-Israeli military operations. Officials in the United Arab Emirates said the missile impact resulted in one fatality, underscoring growing concerns that the widening conflict is spilling beyond its initial flashpoints. The Gulf region, a critical hub for global energy supplies and trade, has been placed on heightened alert as hostilities escalate. Iran has vowed to respond firmly to what it describes as coordinated attacks against its interests, while the United States and Israel maintain that their operations are aimed at curbing security threats. The latest strike has amplified fears of a broader confrontation that could destabilize the wider Middle East. Diplomatic channels remain active, but analysts warn that continued military exchanges risk further civilian casualties and deeper regional fallout if urgent de-escalation efforts fail.
Bardem Stuns Oscars with Anti-War Plea The 98th Ac Bardem Stuns Oscars with Anti-War Plea The 98th Academy Awards took a powerful political turn Sunday night when presenter Javier Bardem used his global platform to advocate for peace. Standing alongside Priyanka Chopra Jonas to present Best International Feature Film, Bardem declared, “No to war and free Palestine.” Sporting a “No a la Guerra” pin—the same one he wore to protest the Iraq War in 2003—Bardem’s statement drew thunderous applause from the Dolby Theatre. While the award ultimately went to Norway’s Sentimental Value, the night’s most viral moment belonged to Bardem’s conviction, sparking immediate global conversation on social media.
Dubai: Flights at Dubai International Airport were Dubai: Flights at Dubai International Airport were temporarily suspended on Monday after a drone strike hit fuel tanks near the airport, causing a massive fire and disrupting operations at one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs. Emergency services rushed to the scene and worked quickly to contain the blaze while authorities launched a security assessment of the area. The incident forced several airlines to delay departures and divert incoming flights to nearby airports, including Al Maktoum International Airport. Roads around the airport were also briefly closed as emergency teams secured the site and assessed potential damage. Officials confirmed that no casualties were reported, but the attack has heightened concerns about the safety of critical infrastructure in the Gulf region. Aviation authorities said operations would resume gradually once safety checks are completed. The drone strike comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, with recent exchanges of attacks linked to the wider confrontation involving Iran, Israel and the United States, raising fears that the conflict could spread further across the region. 🌍✈️🔥
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TEHRAN (March 16, 2026) — In a sharp rebuke to Was TEHRAN (March 16, 2026) — In a sharp rebuke to Washington, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi dismissed President Trump’s claims that Tehran is begging for a deal to end the two-week-old war. Speaking on CBS’s Face the Nation, Araghchi stated that Iran sees “no reason” to negotiate, citing a total breakdown of trust after the U.S. and Israel launched Operation Epic Fury and Roaring Lion during active diplomatic talks. “We were talking with them when they decided to attack us,” Araghchi said, referring to the surprise February 28 strikes that decimated Iran’s air defenses and nuclear sites. He rejected the notion that the conflict is a “war of survival” for the Islamic Republic, asserting the government remains “stable and strong” under the new leadership of Mojtaba Khamenei. The diplomatic stalemate comes as President Trump told NBC he is in no rush to sign a deal, even suggesting further strikes on Kharg Island “just for fun” to secure better terms. Meanwhile, the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed to Western traffic, with Araghchi warning that safe passage is now a military decision. As both sides trade threats of total destruction, the prospect of a ceasefire appears increasingly remote.
Tehran: Crowds of Iranians gathered in central Teh Tehran: Crowds of Iranians gathered in central Tehran to demonstrate unity and support for the country’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, following a historic leadership transition. Supporters waved Iranian flags and held portraits of senior clerics as they took part in rallies aimed at expressing solidarity with the nation’s leadership. Large banners and murals displayed across the capital depicted Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Republic, alongside the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, symbolising the continuity of Iran’s political and religious leadership. Participants said the gatherings were intended to show national cohesion during a period marked by regional tensions and uncertainty. Many demonstrators carried posters and chanted pro-government slogans while others marched through the streets holding the national flag. The rallies were described by supporters as a sign of loyalty to the Islamic Republic and its governing institutions. Mojtaba Khamenei was named Iran’s new Supreme Leader earlier this month after the Assembly of Experts selected him to succeed his father, marking a significant moment in the country’s political history.
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