Israel launches ground operation against Hezbollah amid rising tensions

SEOUL, October 2 (AJP) - Israel has initiated a ground operation in southern Lebanon, which it describes as "limited, localized, and targeted" against Hezbollah. Lebanese civilians have been warned not to travel south of the Litani River, and residents in 25 villages have been advised to evacuate. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claim the operation targets Hezbollah's infrastructure, which they consider an immediate threat to northern Israel. An Israeli official stated

October 2, 2024

UAE's Sharjah attracts expats with affordable prices

SEOUL, September 30 (AJP) - As rents in Dubai, UAE skyrocket, many expatriates are looking to Sharjah, a city with ancient roots just north of Dubai, as a more affordable alternative. Sharjah has begun attracting investors after a recent law allowed foreigners to buy property in specific areas. Developers are responding by building thousands of new homes to meet growing demand. "Sharjah offers lower living costs, and we're seeing a migration from Dubai where rents have beco

September 30, 2024

Israel's strikes on Lebanon and Yemen ignite humanitarian crises

SEOUL, September 30 (AJP) - Israel's airstrikes have likely displaced up to one million people in Lebanon, according to Prime Minister Najib Mikati, who described it as potentially the largest displacement event in the country's history. The Lebanese health ministry reported that more than 50 people were killed in Sunday's strikes, which followed the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah by Israel. In retaliation, Hezbollah launched rockets into northern Isr

September 30, 2024

Muslim American group endorses Kamala Harris amid tensions over Middle East

SEOUL, September 27 (AJP) - Vice President Kamala Harris has received the endorsement of Emgage Action, a leading Muslim American voter mobilization group, boosting her presidential campaign. Many Muslim and Arab American organizations have refrained from endorsing candidates or have supported third-party options. Emgage Action, the political arm of an 18-year-old Muslim American advocacy group, announced its support for Harris on Wednesday, emphasizing the importance of preventing

September 27, 2024

Western nations urge 21-day ceasefire in Lebanon amid rising tensions

SEOUL, September 27 (AJP) - Western nations, including the U.S., U.K., EU, and Australia, have called for a temporary ceasefire in Lebanon amid rising tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. A coalition of 12 countries proposed a 21-day pause in fighting to allow for diplomatic efforts and to work toward a ceasefire in Gaza. There is increasing concern that the escalating violence could lead to a broader conflict, with the Middle East on edge. In a joint statement released on Thursda

September 27, 2024

Israeli troops ready for ground invasion after Hezbollah missile attack

SEOUL, September 26 (AJP) - Israel's military chief, Herzi Halevi, told troops on Wednesday that ongoing airstrikes in Lebanon are aimed at dismantling Hezbollah's infrastructure and preparing for a possible ground invasion. Speaking from Israel's northern border, Halevi explained that the strikes are part of efforts to weaken Hezbollah's capabilities and lay the groundwork for Israeli forces to enter Hezbollah-controlled areas. The operation's goal, according

September 26, 2024

New Zealand, UAE forge stronger trade ties with comprehensive economic partnership

SEOUL, September 26 (AJP) - New Zealand's dairy exports to the UAE reached $718 million, accompanied by $237 million in industrial products, $46 million in red meat, $44 million in horticultural products, and $31 million from tourism. In return, New Zealand imported $152 million worth of goods and services from the UAE, including plastics, carpets, travel services, and glass. The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between New Zealand and the UAE eliminates tarif

September 26, 2024

Qatar becomes first Gulf nation to join U.S. visa waiver program

SEOUL, September 25 (AJP) - Qatar has become the first Gulf country to join the U.S. visa waiver program, allowing its citizens to travel to the U.S. without a visa for up to 90 days. This announcement came from the U.S. State Department and the Department of Homeland Security, which stated that Qatari citizens could apply starting Dec. 1. Qatar's inclusion in the program highlights its strengthening relationship with the U.S., especially in efforts like mediating a ceasefire in

September 25, 2024

Iran ready to renew nuclear talks, criticizes Israel's actions in Gaza

SEOUL, September 25 (AJP) - Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian addressed the United Nations General Assembly, expressing Iran's readiness to improve relations with the West, particularly concerning its nuclear program. In his first UN speech, Pezeshkian emphasized a desire for a "constructive" chapter in international relations and reaffirmed Iran's willingness to engage with Western countries on the 2015 nuclear deal, provided all parties uphold their commitments.

September 25, 2024