Author: OMN AI

DAMAC Properties, the Dubai-based developer, has launched its first project in Iraq: DAMAC Hills Baghdad. The luxury master-planned community is situated near Abbas Ibn Firnas Square, just five minutes from Baghdad International Airport. The launch marks a significant step in DAMAC’s regional expansion strategy. The project is designed to offer high-end residential units and premium amenities, targeting affluent buyers seeking luxury living in Iraq. DAMAC Hills Baghdad combines modern architecture, landscaped spaces, and integrated facilities to create a fully planned urban community. Industry analysts say DAMAC’s move into Iraq reflects confidence in the country’s real estate potential and growing demand…

The Louvre transferred parts of its jewellery collection to the Bank of France’s vaults on Friday after a major theft shocked the nation. French radio network RTL reported that the transfer took place discreetly under heavy police escort. The secured items included pieces from the Apollo Gallery’s “Crown Jewels” and other precious artefacts from various exhibits. The bank’s underground vault, located 27 metres below its Paris headquarters, already stores about 90% of France’s gold reserves. Officials said the move was a precaution to prevent further losses as investigators continue to search for the culprits behind last week’s heist. Thieves Pull…

Covert Operation Prevents Illegal Sale of Radioactive Material Authorities in Georgia have arrested three Chinese nationals accused of attempting to buy uranium through an unauthorized deal. The State Security Service said the arrests took place in Tbilisi during a secret operation as the suspects tried to acquire roughly two kilograms of uranium for about $400,000. The confiscated material was secured and handed over to experts for testing and safe storage. Smuggling Plan Reportedly Spanned Several Countries Investigators allege that the group planned to transport the uranium from Georgia to China, traveling through Russia as part of their route. One of…

The United Arab Emirates and Oman have taken a major step toward enhancing regional connectivity by signing a preliminary agreement for the first cross-border freight rail link. The partnership involves Noatum Logistics, part of AD Ports Group, and Hafeet Rail. Officials say the project will connect Abu Dhabi with Sohar, opening a new era in Gulf logistics. The rail link is expected to boost trade between the two nations, providing a faster, more efficient, and eco-friendly alternative to road transport. Analysts note that the project supports sustainable logistics, reduces carbon emissions, and strengthens the movement of goods across borders. The…

Carrier Deploys to Expand US Presence The Pentagon ordered the USS Gerald R. Ford to deploy near South America.Secretary of War Pete Hegseth assigned the carrier to US Southern Command.The strike group includes five destroyers accompanying the carrier.The USS Ford currently operates in the Mediterranean Sea.Officials said the deployment will improve detection and disruption of illicit actors. Strikes on Suspected Narco Vessels Escalate Tensions Hegseth reported the military conducted its tenth strike on a suspected drug boat.The overnight attack killed six people, he announced on social media.The strikes began in early September and now total at least 43 deaths.Hegseth accused…

Domestic Producers Sound Alarm Over Soaring Competition European industries are under mounting pressure as a wave of Chinese imports reshapes the regional market. The influx—driven by trade shifts after the United States imposed tighter restrictions—has flooded sectors such as clean energy, manufacturing, and consumer goods with cheaper alternatives. Business leaders across the continent warn that the growing imbalance is undercutting local production and putting European jobs at risk. EU Members Push for Stronger Trade Protections Several European governments are urging the European Commission to take decisive action to curb the impact of the import surge. Measures being discussed include raising…

Two Russian military aircraft entered Lithuania’s airspace on Thursday for about 18 seconds, according to the country’s military. Officials identified the planes as an Su-30 fighter jet and an Il-78 refueling tanker, likely on a training mission from Kaliningrad. The aircraft crossed into NATO member Lithuania around 1600 CET. Spanish Eurofighter Typhoon jets from NATO’s Baltic Air Police scrambled immediately and began patrolling the area. In a post on X, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda condemned the incident, calling it a “blatant breach of international law and territorial integrity.” He said Lithuania must respond firmly to the violation. Moscow has not…

Meta has eliminated 600 jobs within its artificial intelligence division, US media reported. The company confirmed on Wednesday that it continues to recruit new employees for its superintelligence lab while implementing these cuts. FAIR and AI Infrastructure Teams Face Reductions Axios first revealed that the layoffs will strike Meta’s Fundamental AI Research (FAIR) team, along with product-related AI and AI infrastructure units. The newer TBD Lab will remain unaffected. Chief AI officer Alexandr Wang, in a memo cited by Axios, urged impacted employees to apply for other internal roles. Most affected workers are expected to secure new positions within Meta.…

Expanded Measures Target Russian Banks, Trade, and Shipping The European Union has adopted its nineteenth sanctions package against Russia, introducing tougher controls across financial and commercial sectors. The new rules blacklist additional Russian banks and companies involved in energy and transport, while tightening restrictions on vessels accused of evading previous embargoes. Officials said the package was crafted to block key economic lifelines that continue to fuel Russia’s war in Ukraine. Liquefied Natural Gas Ban Marks Turning Point for EU Energy Policy At the core of the sanctions is a full ban on Russian liquefied natural gas imports. The measure prohibits…

First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) reported a 21% increase in third-quarter net profit, reaching AED 5.39 billion ($1.47 billion). The results surpassed market expectations, reflecting robust performance across the bank’s operations. The profit surge was supported by strong loan demand and higher interest rates, which enhanced net interest income. Both corporate and retail lending contributed to the growth, highlighting the bank’s diversified business model. FAB executives noted that disciplined risk management, strategic lending initiatives, and efficient cost control were key factors in delivering strong profitability. The increase in lending activity reflects confidence among businesses and consumers, while higher interest rates…