GAZA: A heat wave in the Gaza Strip that has sent temperatures over 38 degrees Celsius worsened power shortages and sparked discontent among residents who expressed frustration with the ruling Hamas group.

Hamas, which has run the territory since 2007 blames a 16-year-long Israeli blockade for devastating Gaza’s economy and undermining development, including the power network.

More than 2.3 million people live in a narrow strip of land squeezed between Egypt and Israel, suffering power cuts for up to 12 hours a day. 

JUBA: Tunisia, one of the world’s top five olive oil producers, is standing at a critical turning point. The country’s olive oil industry, which has long been a vital source of economic stability and foreign currency, is facing challenges that could determine its future.

With the rise of super intensive farming using Spanish olive varieties and methods, Tunisia has witnessed a surge in production levels and profits for big investors. However, this newfound success faces new obstacles.

WASHINGTON: A proposal by Israel for enhanced cooperation with Arab states in efforts to tackle environmental issues such as climate change, global warming and water scarcity has been greeted with a muted public reception in the region, as a result of the continuing Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories and the low priority the Israeli government is perceived to place on such projects.

DUBAI: Naval forces from Kuwait completed joint drills with the UK’s Royal Marines on Monday, the Kuwait News Agency reported.

The drills, which ran for three weeks, included anti-terrorism training, maritime piracy combat, and ship inspection operations, along with first aid, medical evaluations and combat training. 
 

RABAT: Israel has decided to “recognize Morocco’s sovereignty” over the disputed Western Sahara region, the royal office in Rabat announced Monday, citing a letter from the Israeli prime minister.
According to the letter, Benjamin Netanyahu informed Morocco’s King Mohammed VI of “the State of Israel’s decision to recognize Morocco’s sovereignty” over the mineral-rich desert region, the royal office said in a statement.