Author: Admin

Standing beneath the stone archways, intricate murals, and delicate filigree lamps of the Hagia Sophia, architect Hasan Fırat Diker contemplates the immense responsibility of his role: safeguarding a centuries-old monument that stands as both Turkey’s most iconic mosque and one of its most politically sensitive landmarks. He is leading one of the most comprehensive restoration campaigns in the Hagia Sophia’s nearly 1,500-year existence, including critical work to reinforce its vast central dome and protect it against seismic threats. “This isn’t just a national duty—it’s a responsibility to the world,” Diker said, gesturing toward the visitors kneeling on soft turquoise carpets…

Thousands of migrant workers could lose their lives in Saudi Arabia due to an unprecedented construction boom driven by preparations for the 2034 World Cup and other massive infrastructure projects, human rights organisations have warned. The Gulf state has seen a sharp increase in the demand for low-cost foreign labour since 2021, as it accelerates development for the World Cup and other ventures such as the ambitious Neom megacity. The influx of migrant workers has raised serious concerns about labour conditions and safety. Two new reports released today warn that many workers face life-threatening conditions. Advocates have also condemned the…

Microsoft announced on May 13, 2025, that it will lay off approximately 3% of its global workforce, equating to about 6,000 employees. This decision affects all levels, teams, and geographic regions within the company, with a particular focus on reducing middle management layers to enhance operational efficiency . Despite reporting strong quarterly earnings exceeding Wall Street expectations, Microsoft is restructuring to improve agility and streamline operations. Chief Financial Officer Amy Hood emphasized the company’s intent to build high-performing teams by minimizing management layers . The layoffs are not performance-based but are part of a broader effort to enhance efficiency and…

Iran Proposes Regional Consortium with Saudi Arabia and UAE to Enrich Uranium Iran has proposed creating a regional uranium enrichment consortium involving itself, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), in an effort to address U.S. concerns over its independent nuclear program. The plan would tie Gulf nations more closely to Tehran’s nuclear ambitions and position them as supporters of Iran’s right to continue enriching uranium. Iranian officials see the proposal as a significant concession, as it would provide Saudi Arabia and the UAE with access to Iranian nuclear technology and a stake in the enrichment process. It remains…

Man Arrested Over Suspected Arson at Property Connected to PM Keir Starmer A man has been taken into custody in relation to a string of suspected arson incidents involving property associated with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, according to Scotland Yard. The 21-year-old suspect was arrested during the early hours on suspicion of committing arson with intent to endanger life. He is currently being held, the Metropolitan Police confirmed. Authorities said the arrest is connected to three separate incidents now under investigation by counter-terrorism officers. The first occurred around 1:35am on Monday, when the London Fire Brigade alerted police to a…

Here we are again. Just like in 2021, the Green Party finds itself at a familiar crossroads: choosing between candidates who represent a polished, election-driven strategy and those who lean into grassroots activism and radical change. This time, the establishment side is represented by Adrian Ramsay and Ellie Chowns. Both are sitting MPs, and Ramsay is currently co-leader. In 2021, he and Carla Denyer defeated Amelia Womack and Tamsin Omond on a platform centered around professionalizing the party and achieving electoral gains. Although Womack wasn’t exactly an outsider—she had served as deputy leader for seven years—her partnership with Omond, a…

Hamas announced on Sunday that it would release Edan Alexander, the last known surviving American hostage in Gaza. Alexander, a 21-year-old Israeli-American soldier, was abducted during the Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. His release is scheduled for Tuesday, according to Reuters . President Donald Trump confirmed the development via social media, stating that Alexander “is coming home to his family.” He described the move as a “step taken in good faith” by Hamas and acknowledged the efforts of mediators Qatar and Egypt in facilitating the release . The U.S. administration has been actively involved in negotiations for…

US Stock Market Live: Wall Street Futures Surge on US-China Trade Optimism Wall Street futures experienced a significant rally on Sunday evening (US time) following reports of substantial progress in US-China trade talks held over the weekend in Geneva. The Dow Jones Industrial Average futures soared by over 440 points, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq futures gained 70 and 280 points, respectively . Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described the discussions as “productive,” noting that both sides had made significant strides toward resolving key issues. He indicated that a comprehensive briefing would be provided on Monday morning, though it was…

Pope Leo XIV shared that his choice of papal name was partly shaped by the growing influence and complex challenges posed by artificial intelligence in today’s world. In his inaugural address to the College of Cardinals on Saturday, the newly elected pontiff explained that he selected the name “Leo” in tribute to Pope Leo XIII, who led the Catholic Church from 1878 until 1903. Pope Leo XIII was noted for his deep engagement with social issues and his advocacy for workers’ rights during a period of global transformation following the Industrial Revolution. While Pope Leo XIV acknowledged multiple inspirations for…

The Trump administration is set to receive a high-end Boeing 747-8 jumbo jet from Qatar’s royal family, which will be used as the new Air Force One for President Donald Trump’s travel needs, according to four individuals with knowledge of the plan. The jet is expected to be utilized until the end of Trump’s presidency. Two sources also stated that once Trump finishes his second term, the aircraft will be transferred to the Trump presidential library foundation as part of a long-term arrangement. One official familiar with the deal said the transfer will follow all applicable U.S. and international regulations,…