In this photo provided by the North Korean government, its leader Kim Jong Un, center right, and his daughter, center left, take part in a live-fire test of a multiple rocket launch system at an undisclosed location in North Korea on Saturday, March 14. (Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service via AP)

North Korea tested nuclear-capable rocket launchers, state media reported Sunday, a day after neighbor and rival South Korea detected the launch of about 10 ballistic missiles from the secretive state.Read this also North Korea fires nearly 10 ballistic missiles toward Sea of ​​Japan amid military drill tensionsAccording to Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), North Korean leader kim jong un Oversaw Saturday’s test of the Multiple Rocket Launcher System (MRLS). He described the MRLS as a “very lethal but attractive weapon”.

The exercise involved a dozen 600 mm-calibre ultra-precision multiple rocket launchers and two artillery companies.KCNA quoted Kim as saying the drill gave Pyongyang’s enemies – within a striking range of 420 kilometers (about 260 miles) – a feeling of “unease” and a “deep understanding of the destructive power of tactical nuclear weapons.”The rockets struck an island target more than 360 km away in the East Sea off Korea.Kim is accompanied by his daughter and potential heir.Pictures released by state media showed several rockets from large vehicles exploding in the air. Another image shows Kim and his daughter Ju Ae watching the launch from a distance with a military officer.Xu Ai has long been seen as a potential successor, a perception reinforced by a series of recent high-profile appearances.South Korea condemned the launchSeoul condemned the launches as a “provocative move that violates UN Security Council resolutions” and urged Pyongyang to immediately stop such actions.The launch came hours after South Korean Prime Minister Kim Min-sok said US President Donald Trump believed a meeting with Kim would be “good.”In recent months, the Trump administration has pushed to revive high-level talks with Pyongyang, aiming for a potential summit with Kim this year — possibly during Trump’s planned visit to Beijing in late March.After largely ignoring these overtures, Kim recently hinted that the two countries could “get along” if Washington accepted Pyongyang’s nuclear status.South Korea-US joint exercises The test came after the start of South Korea and the US’s spring military exercises, which are scheduled to last until March 19.The exercises, known as “Freedom Shield”, involve approximately 18,000 South Korean troops.Earlier this week, Kim Yo Jong – Kim’s sister and a powerful confidant – warned that the practice could lead to “unimaginably dire consequences.”He also said that the exercise “is taking place at a critical time when the global security architecture is rapidly collapsing and wars are breaking out in different parts of the world.”Pyongyang has also condemned the US-Israeli attack on Iran as an “illegal act of aggression”, calling it evidence of “rogue” behavior by the United States.(with AFP inputs)

Flight chaos eases: Air India, Air India Express deploy 62 additional services to UAE, Saudi Arabia

Air travel between India and Gulf countries has received a significant boost air india The group, including Air India and Air India Express, announced the addition of 62 additional flights connecting India to UAE saudi arabia. The move comes at a time when regional tensions in West Asia have disrupted aviation schedules, leaving thousands of passengers scrambling for alternative travel options.The additional flights are designed to restore connectivity and help stranded passengers return home or reach their destinations in the Gulf, a region that hosts millions of Indian expatriates and remains one of the busiest international corridors for Indian airlines.

Why are airlines adding additional flights? iran vs US-Israel war

The decision to operate additional services follows widespread disruption in Middle Eastern airspace due to rising geopolitical tensions in the region amid the Iran vs US-Israel war. Flight cancellations, diversions and restricted schedules have affected many airlines operating between South Asia and the Gulf. For Indian carriers, the situation has been particularly complex.Many airlines are already dealing with longer routes and higher costs due to the ongoing restrictions on the use of Pakistani airspace and the recent crisis has added another layer of operational challenges. In this backdrop, Air India Group’s decision to increase services is aimed at maintaining travel connections between India and major Gulf destinations while assisting passengers affected by cancellations or delays.

62 additional flights, 80 total flights: What we know amid Iran vs. US-Israel war

According to the airline’s announcements, 62 non-scheduled additional flights will be operated between India and key destinations in the Gulf region. These flights complement the existing scheduled services and are subject to slot availability and regulatory approval from the authorities of both countries.

Air India adds 62 flights to UAE and Saudi Arabia amid regional airspace disruption

Along with regular services, the airline group plans to operate around 80 flights to West Asia in a single day, connecting major Indian cities with Gulf hubs. These routes primarily connect Indian cities with airports in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, two of the most important travel markets for Indian carriers.In a major effort to stabilize travel between India and the Gulf, the Air India Group, including Air India Express, increased its operations to around 80 flights in a single day, connecting India to key destinations in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. The increase in services includes dozens of additional non-scheduled flights aimed at accommodating passengers affected by recent regional disruptions and fluctuations in airline schedules throughout the Middle East.By significantly increasing capacity on key routes connecting cities such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Jeddah and Riyadh to Indian hubs such as Delhi and Mumbai, the airline group effectively created an aviation lifeline for travelers stuck in uncertainty. The intensified program not only helps clear the backlog of stranded passengers, but also underlines the strategic importance of the India-Gulf air corridor, one of the busiest and most economically important international travel networks for Indian carriers.

Serving major Gulf destinations amid Iran vs US-Israel war

The expanded program focuses on some of the busiest routes between India and the Gulf, including:

The services are being operated from major Indian hubs such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kochi and Kozhikode. Some additional round-trip flights include services from Mumbai and Kozhikode to Riyadh, also reflecting the demand for travel between India and Saudi Arabia. In the UAE, the additional capacity includes several emirates, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah, to ensure that passengers from across the country have the option to return to India or continue onward journeys.The primary goal of these additional flights is to assist passengers whose travel plans were disrupted due to cancellations and airspace restrictions. Thousands of passengers were stranded in the Gulf region after a sudden change in flight operations in early March. Airlines are coordinating with aviation authorities to gradually restore connectivity and accommodate the affected passengers.Air India is also actively contacting passengers and offering free rebooking or refund options for those affected by the flight disruption. Passengers are being advised to check flight status updates regularly, as schedules are subject to change depending on the changing geopolitical situation.The expansion of flights highlights the strategic importance of the India-Gulf aviation corridor, one of the busiest in the world. Millions of Indian expatriates live and work in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, creating a steady demand for passenger flights throughout the year. Even minor disruptions can impact the travel industry because:

When tensions rise in the region, airlines must quickly adapt schedules, reroute planes and coordinate with multiple airspace authorities to keep flights operating safely. The move by Air India is part of a broader effort to restore connectivity in the aviation industry after several weeks of disruption. Several carriers operating from the Gulf, including Emirates, Etihad Airways, flydubai and Air Arabia, have also gradually begun to restart or expand services, although many are still operating on reduced schedules.

Will Air India’s 62 additional flights ease travel chaos amid Middle East tensions?

Meanwhile, other Indian airlines have taken different approaches. For example, some carriers have canceled flights due to safety advisories or aircraft restrictions related to regional airspace conditions. This patchwork of schedules reflects the unstable aviation environment in the region.

Rising costs amid Iran vs US-Israel war add to airline challenges

Airlines are grappling with not only operational challenges but also rising costs. Fuel prices have soared amid geopolitical tensions in the Gulf, prompting Air India to introduce a phased fuel surcharge increase on domestic and international flights from March 2026. Longer routes also increase fuel consumption and flight time due to airfield closures – further increasing airlines’ expenses.For travelers planning to fly between India and the Gulf in the coming days, aviation experts advise:

Officials and airlines are monitoring the situation closely and say they will adjust operations if conditions change. The addition of 62 additional flights underlines how important the India-Gulf air corridor is even at a time of geopolitical uncertainty. By rapidly expanding capacity, Air India Group is attempting to stabilize travel routes and ensure that passengers can continue to move between the two regions.For thousands of travelers including migrant workers, tourists and business travelers, the extended schedule could mean the difference between being stranded abroad and eventually reaching home. As the situation evolves in West Asia, airlines are expected to continue to adjust operations while balancing safety, demand and connectivity in one of the world’s most dynamic aviation markets.

Major fire at Sharjah petroleum storage site causes chaos before firefighters can bring it under control

A fire at a petroleum storage facility in the emirate of Sharjah has been brought under control after emergency services arrived to control the blaze late on Saturday night. The incident occurred in the Saja Industrial Area, a major industrial area known for housing energy storage facilities, warehouses and logistics operations.According to local authorities, firefighters from Sharjah Civil Defense responded immediately after receiving reports of the fire at around 9:02 pm, launching rapid containment and cooling operations to prevent the flames from spreading to nearby fuel tanks. Investigators believe the fire was caused by a leak in one of the petroleum storage tanks, although a full investigation into the cause has been launched.Although the fire was eventually brought under control without any casualties, the incident marks a tense moment for the Gulf region, where energy facilities, ports and logistics centers have become increasingly vulnerable amid the Iran vs. US-Israel war and heightened security alerts across the country. middle east.

What happened at Sharjah fuel storage site?

A fire broke out at a commercial facility storing petroleum products in the Saja industrial zone, one of the emirate’s largest industrial clusters. Officials shared that emergency teams moved in immediately as soon as the alarm was raised. Firefighters deployed specialized foam equipment and cooling techniques designed for petroleum fires, which are particularly dangerous due to the flammable nature of fuel vapors.Civil defense teams focused on containing the fire to prevent it from spreading to adjacent tanks and cooling surrounding structures to avoid explosions caused by the heat. Officials later confirmed that the fire had been successfully contained, although firefighters remained on the scene for several hours to monitor the area and prevent flare-ups.Cooling operations are a standard procedure in petroleum-related fires because heat trapped inside storage tanks can fuel the flames even after the visible fire is extinguished.

No injuries reported at Sharjah fuel storage site

Officials confirmed that no injuries or deaths were reported in connection with the incident. Emergency responders also ensured that nearby facilities and personnel remained safe while firefighting operations continued. Industrial areas like Saja typically contain many warehouses and storage tanks containing fuel, chemicals and other industrial materials, meaning that fires in such locations can grow rapidly if not quickly controlled. The prompt response of civil defense teams appears to have prevented a major industrial disaster.

Why are petroleum storage fires so dangerous?

Fuel storage sites present unique fire hazards due to the presence of highly flammable materials. Petroleum products such as diesel, gasoline and industrial fuels release vapors that can easily ignite under high temperatures or when exposed to sparks. Once a storage tank catches fire, flames can rapidly spread to neighboring tanks through intense heat.In severe cases, the tank may explode, known as a boilover, where the superheated fuel explodes violently and the burning liquid spreads over a wide area. That’s why emergency responders rely on special firefighting methods, including foam blankets that suppress vapors and prevent oxygen from spreading into flames.

An important industrial area in Sharjah

Saja Industrial Zone is one of the most important economic zones of Sharjah. The area hosts a wide range of industries, including:

Due to its proximity to major highways and ports, the region plays a vital role in supporting supply chains across the UAE and the wider Gulf region. Industrial safety standards in such areas are generally strict, requiring adherence to detailed protocols for the storage and handling of hazardous materials.

The fire comes amid regional tensions: Iran vs. US-Israel war

The fire in Sharjah also comes amid heightened security concerns across the Gulf. In recent weeks, several energy facilities in the region have experienced fires or disruptions linked to the escalating conflict between Iran, the United States, and Israel.For example, a major fire recently occurred at the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone, one of the UAE’s largest oil storage facilities, when debris from a intercepted drone ignited inside the facility. Authorities later confirmed that the UAE’s energy supply remained stable and the incident did not disrupt the domestic energy market.Similarly, operations at some oil terminals in Fujairah were temporarily suspended after a fire broke out near fuel storage infrastructure due to drone-related incidents. These developments have raised concerns about the vulnerability of energy facilities across the Gulf.

Increasing security around Gulf energy infrastructure

Throughout the Middle East, energy infrastructure such as oil depots, refineries, ports and pipelines are considered strategic assets. The Gulf region is home to some of the world’s most important oil and gas facilities, many of which support global energy supply chains. Countries like the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Qatar export millions of barrels of oil and liquefied natural gas every day. Due to this, even sporadic incidents involving energy facilities can attract global attention.Regional governments have therefore increased surveillance and security around energy infrastructure in recent weeks. Measures include:

Fire Safety Protocols in Industrial Areas of UAE

The UAE has invested heavily in industrial safety systems over the past decade. Civil defense authorities conduct regular inspections to ensure that facilities storing hazardous materials comply with safety regulations.These regulations generally require:

Industrial operators must also perform routine maintenance of fuel storage tanks to prevent leaks and corrosion. Investigators probing the Sharjah incident are expected to assess whether the suspected leak that caused the fire was caused by mechanical failure, maintenance issues or other operational factors.Following the incident, officials urged residents and social media users to rely only on official updates regarding the fire. In recent years, videos and images of industrial fires often spread rapidly online, sometimes accompanied by misinformation. Officials generally advise the public to avoid sharing unverified footage and to follow updates from official civil defense or government sources. This helps prevent panic and ensures that accurate information reaches residents.Although the fire has been extinguished, officials say special teams will remain on site to continue monitoring the area and conducting safety assessments. Investigators are expected to:

If industrial safety standards are found to be violated, operators may face penalties or be required to upgrade safety systems. The Sharjah petroleum storage fire is a reminder of the risks associated with large-scale fuel storage operations. Even with strict safety measures, industrial accidents can occur due to equipment failure, maintenance issues or operational errors. However, the quick response of emergency teams ensured that the situation did not turn into a major disaster.

Iran warns UAE ports: Escalation in Gulf conflict amid war with US-Israel threatens global trade

The war between Iran, the United States and Israel has entered a dangerous new phase, spreading tensions across the Gulf and threatening some of the region’s most important economic hubs. In a dramatic development, Iranian officials have urged residents to evacuate several major UAE ports, including facilities in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.Tehran claimed the ports were being used as “ports, docks and hideouts” for US forces allegedly involved in recent attacks on Iranian oil infrastructure. Iranian media specifically named Jebel Ali port, Khalifa port and Fujairah port as potential targets and warned citizens to immediately leave the surrounding areas.The unprecedented warning is the first time Iran has openly threatened key infrastructure in the United Arab Emirates, a major economic hub of the Gulf and a longtime strategic partner of the West. As drone strikes, missile intercepts and fires near oil facilities continue to be reported across the region, fears have grown that the conflict could escalate beyond Iran and Israel, potentially destabilizing global energy markets and the Gulf’s vital trade routes.

Iran’s warning created panic in the entire Gulf

Iran’s evacuation warning comes amid rising tensions following US attacks on Iran’s Kharg Island, the country’s primary oil export terminal. Tehran accused Washington of using facilities in the UAE to launch the attacks, although it did not provide evidence for the claim. Iranian officials warned that locations linked to the United States, including ports and logistics centers, could become legitimate targets in retaliation. According to Iranian state media, residents and workers near three major Emirati ports were urged to leave the area as “facilities could be targeted in the coming hours”.The warning raised concerns across the region as these ports are not only vital to the UAE’s economy but also play a central role in global trade and energy supply chains.

Why do Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah ports matter?

Drone strikes and missile interceptions across the Gulf amid Iran vs US-Israel war

The evacuation warning came as the Gulf witnessed a wave of drone and missile incidents linked to the escalating conflict. Throughout the region:

The attacks are part of a broader escalation following US and Israeli military operations targeting Iranian facilities. Iran has responded by launching missile and drone attacks across the region and warned that countries hosting US troops could face retaliation.

Attack on Kharg Island in Iran poses threat

The ongoing crisis has deepened after the United States targeted military installations near Kharg Island, Iran’s most important oil export hub. Kharag Island is responsible for handling approximately 90% of Iran’s oil exports, making it one of the most strategically important energy facilities in the world. US officials said the attacks targeted military sites but Iran interpreted it as an attack on its economic lifeline. In response, Tehran warned that it could attack US-linked infrastructure across the region. This includes not only military bases but also ports, logistics facilities, and companies supporting US operations.The war began to escalate rapidly after a series of attacks in late February between Iran and Israel, supported by the United States. In a matter of weeks, the conflict spread on multiple fronts, with missile exchanges between Iran and Israel, drone strikes across the Gulf, attacks targeting energy infrastructure, and cyber attacks on regional systems.According to international reports, there have been thousands of casualties in Iran since the conflict began. As the war enters its third week, analysts fear the region could be on the brink of a much larger conflict.

Strait of Hormuz: World’s most dangerous chokepoint amid Iran vs US-Israel war

Another reason why the situation is so dangerous is the conflict near the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important shipping lanes. The strait connects the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea and carries large volumes of oil and gas shipments from the following countries:

Since about 20% of the world’s oil supply passes through this narrow waterway, any disruption could send energy prices soaring around the world. Global markets are already showing signs of panic as oil prices rise amid fears of supply disruption.

How the UAE and global markets are reacting to the Iran vs US-Israel war

The UAE has not publicly confirmed Iran’s claim that US forces launched strikes from Emirati territory. However, as the tension increased, the authorities have taken several precautionary measures.These include:

Even temporary disruptions in Gulf ports could have far-reaching consequences for global shipping, oil markets and international trade.

Could Gulf cities become targets in an Iran vs. US-Israel war?

Iran’s warning has raised concerns that if the conflict escalates, major cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi could become targets. However, analysts say direct attacks on Gulf states would risk sparking a wider regional war involving multiple countries. Despite hosting US military bases and maintaining close economic ties with Western allies, most Gulf governments are trying to avoid involvement in the conflict. Still, the latest threats highlight how easily the war can escalate beyond its original front lines. At present, the situation remains volatile and unpredictable. Military analysts say several scenarios could play out in the coming days, including an increase in drone and missile attacks across the Gulf, further attacks on energy infrastructure or shipping routes, international naval deployments to secure oil shipping lanes and diplomatic efforts to prevent a broader regional war. Much will depend on whether Iran carries out threats against UAE ports and how regional governments respond.The evacuation warnings for the ports of Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Fujairah were a stark reminder of how quickly geopolitical conflicts can threaten the world’s most important economic centres. For decades, Gulf cities like Dubai have thrived on stability, global trade and international investment, but as the Iran vs. US-Israel conflict deepens, the region now faces one of the most serious security challenges in years. If tensions continue to escalate, the impact will not be limited to the Middle East and could also impact global energy markets, shipping routes and financial systems.

prince harry And meghan markle According to the first part of its serialization published by The Times, they were the subject of a new book by royal author Tom Bower. A Long Excerpt of Betrayal: Power, Deceit and the Battle for the Future of the Royal Family contains detailed claims about the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s relationship with the royal family and how they have led life since leaving the Firm and moving to California.In the excerpt, Bower wrote that Queen Camilla told a friend that Meghan had “brainwashed” Harry because of changes in her behavior after the couple realized complaints about the royal family. Bower wrote: “Meghan had become a divisive agent. To please her, Harry was ignoring his old friends. He even changed his telephone number without telling his family.“A happy-go-lucky city boy becomes obsessed with revenge.” Gradually, her character started to resemble Meghan. Emotionally, he leaned toward extremes. Simple dislike became passionate hatred. Camilla told a friend, ‘Meghan has ruined Harry’s mind.’Bower also recalled a meeting after the couple returned from their honeymoon in 2018, when the Duke and Duchess of Sussex met with Prince William and Princess Kate at Kensington Palace for what she described as peace talks, the UK Mirror reports. Bower wrote: “William’s dislike of Meghan was made clear following her warning to Harry before their engagement. ‘It’s too soon,’ William said of the pace of Harry’s relationship with the ‘American actress’. William’s suspicions of Meghan were echoed by his wife.”According to the biography, during the conversation, Meghan taunted her brother-in-law, saying, “If you don’t mind, get your finger out of my face.”The excerpt says the book details how Harry was shocked by William’s reaction to the arrest of his uncle Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, which he said heightened Harry’s concerns about his and Meghan’s royal future. It says William stood by his father King Charles and his decisions regarding Andrew, including kicking him out of the Royal Lodge and stripping him of his titles. It also said that the Prince of Wales issued a statement following Andrew’s arrest, saying that he and Princess Kate support the actions of the King, who declared that “the law must take its course”.Bower claimed that Harry became concerned that William might take drastic action if he came to the throne. The author wrote: “Correctly, Harry fears that future King William could strip all of Sussex’s titles and effectively exile him from the UK.“Whether Meghan understands the potential consequences of any deliberate disrespect to the Prince and Princess of Wales remains to be seen.”The excerpt also mentioned Harry and Meghan’s appearance in Los Angeles in January last year, when the city was being devastated by deadly wildfires. It said the couple met the victims and spent the afternoon helping by listening to people’s stories and handing out essentials at the soup kitchen. Bower wrote that the couple was ridiculed for the trip as some claimed they were taking advantage of the disaster for their own gain. Bower wrote: “After recording a video of her listening and hugging the victims, the footage was posted to Meghan’s 1.6 million Instagram followers by campaigners that day.“Instead of getting credit for her efforts, Meghan was mocked as an attention-seeking pseudo-royal.” Bower then quoted Hollywood film producer Justin Bateman, who said online at the time: “Meghan Markle and Harry are no better than ambulance chasers.“What a disgusting ‘photo op’ they got. They’re doing a ‘damage tour’? Are they politicians now? They don’t live here; they’re tourists. Disaster tourists.”Most of the pieces focused on the Invictus Games and included claims that the Duchess of Sussex had used the event for her personal gain, and that Harry and Meghan found it difficult to understand event organizers. Bower wrote: “Meghan needed a global platform for real adulation and raving fans. To her good fortune, Harry agreed she could star in the Invictus Games, which he was about to open in Canada. Just before flying to Vancouver in a private jet, she alerted her Instagram followers.“‘How should we address them?'” Canadian organizers asked. Nick Booth, chief executive of Games, replied: ‘Meghan insists on ‘ma’am’ and Harry should be called ‘sir’.’The piece also highlights alleged internal concerns, including concerns expressed by Dominic Reid, former head of the Invictus Foundation, that the sport and the contestants are being eclipsed and that the sport has turned into a “Harry and Meghan show”. It pointed to poor attendance at the program and alleged “padding” of the crowd for the benefit of the cameras, and suggested that contestants and their families were being influenced by carefully staged photo ops.With the 2027 Invictus Games taking place in Birmingham, the book claims Harry conspired to get his father, King Charles, to call the Games, saying it would dominate the media cycle and lead to a public announcement of reconciliation. However, Bower wrote that the games were probably not without opposition, making Charles’s potential attendance a huge gamble. The author wrote: “Considering all the reprehensible words and lies spoken and written by the Sussexes against the royal family since 2021, and taking into account the enormous damage done by the Sussexes’ exploitation of their royal titles, the chances of the King trotting out the Prince and Princess of Wales to appease the Sussexes in the spring of 2026 are extremely slim.”“For the king to publicly meet his son and his troublesome daughter-in-law, who are guilty of betraying the royal family, is a gamble with little upside. The feud embroiling them is far from resolved, and it remains to be seen what damage the 2027 Invictus Games will do to the already fragile family.”Within hours of the release of the first part of the episode, a spokesperson for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex released a statement condemning the allegations. The representative said: “Mr Bower’s comments have long crossed the line from criticism to fixation. This is a man who has publicly said, ‘The monarchy really depends on eliminating the Sussexes from our position of life,’ language that speaks for itself.“He has made a career out of creating ever more elaborate theories about people he doesn’t know and have never met. Those interested in the facts will look elsewhere; those looking for deranged conspiracy and melodrama know where to find them.”

Dubai’s Global Village remained closed; Eid fireworks celebrations canceled / Image: File

Dubai’s popular cultural attraction Global Village will not host its traditional Eid Al Fitr fireworks celebration this year, as the destination will remain closed until further notice amid precautionary safety measures announced by the authorities.The announcement comes just days before the expected Eid holidays, disappointing many residents and tourists who usually gather at the venue for spectacular fireworks displays at the end of Ramadan. Officials said the decision follows nationwide government directives banning fireworks and drone shows as part of broader safety precautions.Global Village, one of Dubai’s most visited seasonal attractions, has been closed for more than two weeks and will remain closed until further notice as authorities continue to monitor the evolving regional situation.

Dubai Global Village Eid fireworks canceled for 2026

Organizers confirmed that all planned Eid Al Fitr fireworks and drone shows have been canceled this year. The popular open-air attraction usually hosts massive fireworks displays during major holidays, drawing thousands of visitors each evening.However, the venue said it was complying with official government guidelines that temporarily ban fireworks and drone entertainment across the country.The cancellation marks a significant change for the festive period, as fireworks have long been a highlight of Eid celebrations at the venue. Last season, colorful displays illuminated Dubai’s skyline while visitors enjoyed shopping, dining and live performances.

Why was Global Village closed for Ramadan 2026?

The extended closure is linked to heightened regional tensions in the Middle East, which have prompted authorities to take extra security precautions at major public places. The ongoing regional conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran has prompted governments across the Gulf to reevaluate public events and gatherings as a precaution.Reports indicate that the UAE has recently intercepted several ballistic missiles and drones launched from Iran, highlighting the seriousness of the situation and the need for vigilance. As a result, several major attractions in the UAE, including Dubai Parks and Resorts and Ain Dubai, have also been temporarily closed while authorities evaluate security conditions.

What visitors should know

Eid Al Fitr in the UAE is expected to begin around March 19, 2026, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon.Less than a week before the holidays, officials advise residents and tourists to stay updated about announcements about reopening or changes to scheduled events through Global Village’s official website and social media channels.This popular attraction, known for its international pavilions, street food, shopping stalls and cultural performances representing over 90 countries, typically attracts millions of visitors every season.Although some Eid celebrations may be overshadowed by the cancellation of fireworks, officials say security remains a top priority given the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region.

For nearly three decades the art world has been engaged in a strange cultural ritual. People stand in front of the walls, looking at them with unusual seriousness and trying to interpret a joke left by someone during the night. A mouse with a plank. One policeman hugging another policeman. A child is moving towards a red balloon which has already slipped. The name beneath the stencil is always the same: Banksy.No biography, no interviews, no public appearances. Just a pseudonym that became one of the most recognizable signatures in modern art.Banksy’s anonymity was not just a curiosity but a part of the work. Street art was always in tension with the law, and a guy who mocked governments and corporations with spray paint couldn’t easily step out into the light of day without losing that rebellious energy. Over time mystery became inseparable from art. The world wasn’t just looking at Banksy’s graffiti; It was also looking for the person who had painted them.

The answer, when it finally began to emerge, did not come in the form of any dramatic revelation or triumphant revelation. Instead it emerged gradually through patient reporting. The Reuters investigation traced clues scattered across continents and decades. The series moves from the graffiti culture of Bristol to the bombed-out buildings of Ukraine and finally to a forgotten police file in New York. What the journalists uncovered was less a dramatic display than a gradual dismantling of a myth that had been carefully maintained for years.The story begins in Bristol, a port city in southwest England, where a thriving underground scene of musicians, graffiti artists, and political activists developed at the turn of the twentieth century. Bristol in the 1990s was fertile ground for experimentation. Spray paint was cheap, public walls were abundant and authority provided a steady supply of targets for satire. In that environment a young graffiti artist began to develop the style that would later define Banksy’s work.A technical choice proved decisive. The artist began using stencils instead of painting freehand. The stencils allowed images to be applied quickly and repeatedly. They also allowed the artist to work at pace, which was necessary any time police patrols came into view. This method created the clean silhouettes and sharp outlines that later became synonymous with Banksy’s visual language.Topics emerged just as quickly. War, policing, capitalism, and consumer culture all appeared in early works, usually filtered through a mischievous sense of humor. Banksy’s characters often appeared simple but had a sharp political edge. Children confronted soldiers, animals mocked officials and everyday objects were transformed into cool acts of rebellion. One image in particular caught people’s imagination: a little girl moving toward a heart-shaped balloon floating in the sky. The work was emotionally simple, instantly recognizable, and quietly devastating.

As Banksy’s murals began to appear in cities around the world, the mystery surrounding the artist deepened. Journalists and enthusiasts proposed several candidates for the identity behind the pseudonym. One of the most frequent names was Bristol artist Robin Gunningham, whose background matched the timeline of Banksy’s early career. The other was musician Robert Del Naja of the band Massive Attack, who himself had been part of the Bristol graffiti scene years earlier. Speculation developed into a small cultural industry, in which entire communities analyzed itineraries and stylistic similarities in an attempt to identify the elusive artist.Meanwhile Banksy continued to work. Murals appear in London, Paris, New York and the Middle East, often containing scathing comments about war, immigration and political power. Anonymity lasted so long that it seemed almost supernatural. Banksy seemed less like an individual artist and more like an invisible presence capable of appearing on any blank wall.The modern investigation of his identity began in an unexpected place. In 2022, during the war in Ukraine, several new Banksy murals appeared on damaged buildings near Kiev. Photos showed gymnasts balancing on debris and children confronting armed soldiers. The works quickly attracted international attention. He also raised a practical question. If Banksy had traveled to an active war zone to create them, someone would surely have seen him.Reporters began talking to residents of the villages where the murals appeared. Eyewitnesses reported that a small group was arriving in an ambulance. Two masked painters worked rapidly with stencils and spray paint while a third man accompanied them. The man was recognizable because he had artificial legs and an arm. He turned out to be a British war photographer who had previously worked with Banksy’s wide circle of artists and musicians. Details suggest that those involved in Ukrainian graffiti may have connections to the Bristol scene, from which Banksy originally emerged.

The clues soon link back to one of the long-standing suspects. Robert del Naza traveled to Ukraine around the same time that the frescoes appeared. The discovery briefly revived the idea that the composer might be Banksy himself or at least be closely associated with the operations behind the artworks. Yet the investigation ultimately revealed that the real breakthrough was hidden elsewhere, in a piece of paperwork that had lain quietly in an American archive for more than two decades.In September 2000 a young British graffiti artist climbed onto the roof of a building in Manhattan during New York Fashion Week. A large billboard advertising Marc Jacobs clothing stood on the street there. The artist began making changes to the advertisement, adding exaggerated teeth and creating a speech bubble next to the model’s face. Even before the work was completed, the police officers caught him in the act.At the time the incident seemed like a routine case of vandalism. The charges were reduced, a small fine was paid and the man was released. Little did anyone realize that the man standing on that rooftop would soon become one of the most influential artists of the twenty-first century. Yet this case left behind an invaluable scar. Inside the police file was a handwritten confession signed by the person who had defaced the billboard. The signature read Robin Gunningham.The discovery provided the strongest evidence yet that Banksy and Gunningham were the same person. The name had been rumored for years, but police documents turned the speculation into something more concrete. The mysterious street artist whose work spread around the world appears to have started his career as a graffiti painter from Bristol, who was once arrested while vandalizing a billboard in New York.Even this conclusion did not completely resolve the story. After the mid-2000s the public record trace for Robin Gunningham almost completely disappears. Addresses, property documents and other bureaucratic traces disappeared. Former colleagues later suggested that the explanation was straightforward. The artist had changed his legal name. The new identity was intentionally generic, a name that could easily blend into everyday life without attracting attention.In the end Banksy’s story highlights a strange paradox about modern fame. The artist created some of the most widely recognized images in contemporary culture while remaining personally invisible. His works criticized power structures and commercial systems, while those same systems turned his paintings into highly valued commodities. The myth of Banksy became as powerful as the artworks themselves.The investigation which revealed his identity as Robin Gunningham does not completely dispel that myth. The graffiti is still visible throughout the night. Pictures still speak in the same mischievous voice. The artist still avoids public appearances and interviews. What has changed is only the knowledge that behind the legend stands a man who once walked the streets of Bristol with a stencil and a spray can, and discovered that invisibility could be the most powerful artistic tool of all.

Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump (file photo)

Vladimir Putin Can’t you make an offer that Donald Trump won’t reject? During a phone call with Trump this week, Putin proposed that Russia take possession of Iran’s enriched uranium as part of a broader deal tied to ending the ongoing war, Axios reported.According to a scoop from Axios, Trump rejected the offer.The situation in the Middle East worsened after Donald Trump launched a brutal mission against the Tehran regime led by Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was later killed. Long frustrated by Iran’s nuclear ambitions, the US-Israeli military strike targeted key nuclear and military sites, leaving Iran weakened and angry and triggering a wave of retaliatory attacks across the Gulf region.Securing Iran’s 450 kilograms of 60%-enriched uranium, which can be converted into weapons-grade material in a matter of weeks and is enough for more than 10 nuclear bombs, remains one of the key objectives for the United States and Israel in the ongoing conflict.In theory, a proposal from Russian President Vladimir Putin could help remove Iran’s nuclear stockpile without the need for American or Israeli troops on the ground. The idea involves Russia taking possession of enriched uranium.Russia already has advanced nuclear capabilities and previously stored Iran’s low-enriched uranium under the 2015 nuclear deal, making it one of the few countries with the technical capacity to handle such material.Putin reportedly raised several ideas about ending the war between the United States and Iran during a phone call with US President Donald Trump on Monday. The uranium custody proposal was one of the suggestions.“This is not the first time this has been offered. It has not been accepted. The US position is that we need to secure the uranium,” a US official told Axios.Russia made similar proposals during US-Iran nuclear talks last May, before the United States and Israel attacked Iran’s nuclear facilities in June, and again in the weeks before the current war.During the last round of talks before the conflict began, Iran rejected the idea of ​​transferring uranium abroad. Instead, Tehran proposed to dilute the enriched uranium within its own facilities under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency.It is not clear whether Iran would now be willing to accept such a proposal.The United States official said, “The President talks to everybody – Xi, Putin, the Europeans, and he is always ready to make a deal. But it has to be a good deal. The President doesn’t make bad deals.”Meanwhile, according to an earlier Axios report, the United States and Israel have also discussed the possibility of sending special forces to Iran in the later stages of the war to secure the nuclear stockpile.US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said at a press conference on Friday that the United States has “several options” for taking control of Iran’s highly enriched uranium.Hegseth said one possible option would be for Iran to voluntarily surrender the stockpiles, a move the United States “would welcome.”He said, “They were not willing to do that in negotiations. I would never tell this group or the world what we are willing to do or how far we are willing to go – but we certainly have options.”However, Trump suggested that securing enriched uranium is not currently a top priority. “We’re not focused on that, but at some point we may be,” he said.The US president also acknowledged for the first time that Russia could assist Iran during the conflict, following reports that Moscow had provided intelligence that could help target US forces.“I think [Putin] They might be getting a little help, yes. And he probably thinks we’re helping Ukraine, right?” Trump said in the Fox interview.“So he says this, and China will say the same thing. It’s like, hey, they do this and we do this, in all fairness.”