Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has publicly expressed remorse following a heated confrontation with a pitch-side cameraman after his team’s 2-1 Premier League loss to Newcastle United. The incident occurred at St James’ Park on Saturday, where Guardiola was visibly frustrated by several contentious decisions during the match. Speaking ahead of City’s Champions League clash with Bayer Leverkusen, Guardiola admitted feeling ’embarrassed and ashamed’ by his actions. ‘I don’t like it. I apologise to the cameraman. I am who I am. Even with 1,000 games, I am not a perfect person and I make mistakes,’ he stated. The defeat left City seven points behind league leaders Arsenal, adding pressure to their upcoming fixtures. Guardiola, who is set to manage his 100th Champions League game, emphasized the importance of the competition for the club’s reputation and financial standing. City currently sit fourth in the Champions League table and are aiming to secure a top-eight position to avoid a playoff for the knockout rounds. Guardiola also confirmed that key midfielder Rodri will miss the Leverkusen match due to injury, though he did not specify a return date.
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Barca’s Lopez showing summer suitors Chelsea what they missed
Barcelona’s financial challenges have forced the club to rely heavily on its famed La Masia academy, and one of its brightest graduates, Fermin Lopez, is making waves. While Lamine Yamal, often compared to Lionel Messi, garners much of the attention, Lopez has emerged as a crucial figure in Hansi Flick’s squad. The 22-year-old midfielder, who joined Barcelona at 13, has become a regular starter and a key goal threat. Chelsea, who had a €40 million bid rejected last summer, are well aware of his talent. As Barcelona prepares to face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in the Champions League, Lopez’s performance could reignite interest from the London club. Lopez’s journey to prominence began under Xavi Hernandez, who integrated him into the first team during the 2023 pre-season. His standout moment came in a friendly against Real Madrid, where he scored and secured his place in the squad. Last season, Lopez made 46 appearances, contributing to Barcelona’s domestic treble, often as a substitute. This season, he has taken a significant leap forward, outperforming Dani Olmo in the number 10 role and becoming Flick’s preferred option in midfield, especially with Gavi sidelined due to injury. Lopez’s dynamic playing style, characterized by relentless energy, pressing, and goal-scoring ability, has earned him praise from Flick, who described him as “complete” and “dynamic.” With seven goals and four assists in 12 appearances this season, including a hat-trick against Olympiakos, Lopez has proven his worth. His recent performance in Barcelona’s 4-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao, where he scored on his 100th appearance, further solidified his importance. As Barcelona faces Chelsea, Lopez’s ability to shine on the big stage could not only boost his team’s chances but also increase his market value, potentially tempting Chelsea to make another move for the rising star.
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UAE seeks to build momentum at Ambiente exhibition in Germany
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is poised to make a significant impact at the Ambiente 2026 exhibition in Frankfurt, Germany, as it seeks to bolster its position in the global consumer goods market. The event, scheduled from February 6 to 10, 2026, will feature the UAE alongside other prominent country pavilions, including China, India, Turkey, and Italy. This participation underscores the UAE’s strategic ambition to expand its international reach and foster partnerships across Europe and beyond. Ambiente, renowned as the world’s leading consumer goods trade fair, will host over 3,750 exhibitors and attract more than 105,000 visitors. When combined with Christmasworld and Creativeworld, the trio of events forms a dynamic ecosystem that drew 147,684 visitors from over 170 countries in 2025. For UAE businesses, the appeal of these fairs lies in their global profile and strategic location at the heart of international trade. With 87% of exhibitors hailing from outside Germany, the event offers an ideal platform for Emirates-based companies to showcase their products and establish a foothold in European markets. Mustansir Golwala, Managing Director of Crystal Arc, emphasized the significance of Ambiente as a hub for creativity, craftsmanship, and global connection. The 2026 edition introduces several innovations, including an Interior Design & Architecture Hub curated by Katty Schiebeck and a new Kitchen Show featuring live cooking demonstrations. Additionally, the expansion of the Contract Business & Hospitality Interiors segment and the introduction of Christmasworld’s Coffee & Connect networking lounge provide fresh opportunities for UAE exhibitors. Julia Uherek, Vice President Consumer Goods Fairs at Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH, highlighted the importance of the Middle East region in their international network, noting that UAE companies bring valuable retail and design expertise to the global stage. Philipp Ferger, Vice President Consumer Goods Fairs at Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH, emphasized the strategic value of Frankfurt as a platform for UAE businesses to accelerate international growth and navigate market transformation.
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Decades-long efforts to send uncensored foreign news into North Korea face major setbacks
In a bold effort to provide uncensored news to North Korea, Lee Si-young and her team at Free North Korea Radio (FNK) broadcast foreign news into the authoritarian state for two hours daily. Despite the risks—North Koreans caught listening could face imprisonment—the Seoul-based station has persisted for two decades. However, Lee now faces a crisis as major U.S. and South Korean government-funded broadcasters, including Voice of America and Radio Free Asia, have ceased operations due to funding cuts and policy shifts. These suspensions have left FNK as one of the few remaining sources of outside information for North Korea’s 26 million citizens. Lee, a defector who leads the small NGO, expressed growing frustration with the U.S. and South Korean governments, fearing they have abandoned North Koreans. The station’s survival is critical, as North Korea’s state-controlled media restricts access to independent news. Defectors have testified to modifying radios or using smuggled devices to access foreign broadcasts, which offer perspectives on the Kim dynasty, Western lifestyles, and defector success stories. However, a recent assessment by 38 North, a respected academic website, revealed that outside radio broadcasting into North Korea has declined by 85% following U.S. and South Korean funding cuts. Despite these challenges, Lee Young-hyeon, a defector-turned-lawyer, launched a website and mobile app targeting North Koreans abroad, aiming to provide practical content and foster awareness of global freedoms. Observers remain skeptical of North Korea easing its strict internet restrictions, given its oppressive laws against foreign cultural influences. Meanwhile, defectors like Kim Ki-sung attest to the transformative power of foreign broadcasts, which influenced their decisions to flee. FNK remains committed to its mission, believing even one listener in North Korea justifies their efforts.
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Labubu gains popularity in Afghanistan amid retail, cultural shifts
In the vibrant markets of Kabul, Afghanistan, an unexpected trend has emerged: the rise of Labubu, a whimsical Chinese collectible toy. These colorful figurines, characterized by their mischievous smiles and elf-like ears, have become a staple in local shops, symbolizing a significant shift in both the retail and cultural landscapes of the country.
Mostafa Seerat, a shop owner in Kabul, began selling Labubu just six months ago in response to growing customer demand. ‘The sales have been incredible. We now sell around 400 units a day,’ Seerat remarked, highlighting the toy’s rapid ascent to becoming one of his top-selling items.
The introduction of Labubu to Afghanistan was spearheaded by Tamim Behzad, a seasoned businessman with extensive experience in Yiwu, China’s small commodities hub. Recognizing the toy’s potential, Behzad took a calculated risk to bring it to Afghanistan, uncertain of its reception. ‘When we realized the speed of sales and the strong market demand for Labubu, we decided to take a risk,’ Behzad explained.
The popularity of Labubu is not just a commercial success but also a reflection of broader cultural changes in Afghanistan. Shafiqullah, a Labubu seller, noted that the country is undergoing modernization, with people increasingly embracing global brands. Traditionally dominated by local and regional products, Afghanistan’s consumer market is now expanding to include international goods, with Labubu often purchased as gifts for loved ones.
Moreover, Labubu’s success has opened new avenues for small-scale entrepreneurship. Erfan, an online retailer, started his business with a modest investment of $100 and has since grown his capital to between $5,000 and $6,000. ‘In Afghanistan, jobs are hard to come by, but with a small investment, you can start a business and watch it grow,’ Erfan shared.
The toy has also provided opportunities for women and young people. Erfan’s business employs three staff members, two of whom are women responsible for managing deliveries across Afghanistan. ‘This has been a positive development. It’s not just about making money; it’s about giving women an opportunity to work and grow professionally,’ Erfan emphasized.
In essence, Labubu’s rise in Afghanistan is more than just a retail phenomenon; it is a testament to the country’s evolving economic and cultural dynamics, offering new opportunities and reflecting a growing openness to global influences.
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‘Normalisation’ with Israel: What it means and why it’s not happening
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s recent visit to Washington highlighted significant economic and military agreements with the United States, including a multi-billion-dollar investment pledge and the acquisition of F-35 fighter jets. However, the Crown Prince stopped short of fulfilling a long-standing U.S. aspiration: the formal normalization of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel. This reluctance comes amid escalating regional tensions and Israel’s controversial military actions in Gaza, Lebanon, Yemen, Iran, Syria, and Qatar, which have sparked widespread anger across the Arab world. The Crown Prince emphasized the importance of a two-state solution as a prerequisite for any normalization, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s cautious approach to regional diplomacy. The Abraham Accords, brokered by the Trump administration, have seen several Arab nations, including the UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan, establish formal ties with Israel. However, these agreements have faced criticism from Palestinians and other Arab states, particularly in light of Israel’s aggressive policies in occupied territories. Saudi Arabia’s stance underscores the complex geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, where historical grievances and ongoing conflicts continue to shape diplomatic relations.
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Australian far-right senator wears burqa to parliament, sparking outrage
Australian far-right Senator Pauline Hanson has ignited widespread condemnation after wearing a burqa in Parliament as part of her campaign to ban the Muslim garment in public spaces. The controversial act occurred shortly after Hanson’s proposed bill to outlaw burqas and other full-face coverings was rejected by the Senate. Hanson’s stunt drew sharp criticism from fellow senators, who accused her of blatant racism and disrespect. The Senate chamber erupted in anger as Hanson entered wearing the burqa, leading to a suspension of proceedings when she refused to remove it. Mehreen Faruqi, a Greens senator from New South Wales, labeled Hanson’s actions as ‘racist,’ while independent Senator Fatima Payman from Western Australia called the move ‘disgraceful.’ Both Penny Wong, leader of the Labor government in the Senate, and Anne Ruston, deputy leader of the opposition coalition, condemned Hanson’s behavior, with Wong describing it as ‘not worthy of a member of the Australian Senate.’ Hanson, a Queensland senator and leader of the One Nation party, has a history of anti-immigration and anti-Islamic rhetoric. She previously wore a burqa in Parliament in 2017, advocating for a national ban. In a Facebook statement, Hanson defended her actions, claiming they were a protest against the Senate’s rejection of her bill and a call to highlight the ‘oppressive’ nature of the garment. Her One Nation party has gained traction in recent years, securing four Senate seats in the May general election amid rising support for far-right policies.
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Saudi Arabia further eases alcohol restrictions according to residents
Saudi Arabia appears to have taken another step in relaxing its historically stringent alcohol restrictions, with reports indicating that certain foreign residents have successfully purchased alcohol from the kingdom’s sole liquor store. Initially opened in Riyadh in January 2024, the store was originally intended to serve only non-Muslim diplomats. However, premium visa holders have confirmed that the rules have been quietly adjusted to include them. One such resident shared, ‘I heard about it from friends who tried it. I went there two days ago and it actually worked. It saved me a lot of money rather than buying from the black market. Prices are reasonable, and we finally can buy alcohol.’ The premium resident status, introduced in 2019, is available to a select group of foreigners who meet specific criteria, including a one-time payment of 800,000 riyals ($213,000). While the Saudi government has not officially acknowledged this change, it signifies a notable shift in a country that has enforced a total alcohol ban since 1952. This ban was instituted following a tragic incident involving Prince Mishari bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and British diplomat Cyril Ousman, which led to the prince’s life imprisonment and the subsequent prohibition of alcohol. Under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia has implemented several social reforms, including allowing women to drive, hosting public concerts, and opening cinemas. However, the loosening of alcohol restrictions may provoke backlash from conservative Muslims who view its consumption as forbidden by Islamic law. Historically, alcohol consumption in Saudi Arabia has been punishable by fines, imprisonment, public flogging, and deportation for foreigners. This latest development reflects the kingdom’s ongoing efforts to modernize its society while balancing traditional values.
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Abu Dhabi T10: Quetta Qavalry first team to qualify for playoffs
The 2025 Abu Dhabi T10 tournament has reached its midway point, and Quetta Qavalry has emerged as the first team to secure a playoff berth. With an impeccable five-match winning streak, Qavalry has accumulated 10 points and boasts an exceptional Net Run Rate (NRR) of 4.00, setting a high standard for excellence in cricket’s fastest format. Their dominant performance has solidified their position among the tournament’s top four teams. Meanwhile, the race for the remaining three playoff spots remains fiercely competitive. Vista Riders currently hold second place with six points from four matches, while UAE Bulls, Ajman Titans, Deccan Gladiators, and Northern Warriors are locked in a tight battle, each tied on four points. Aspin Stallions, with two points, still have a slim chance, while Royal Champs face a daunting challenge after four consecutive losses. The tournament has also showcased remarkable individual performances. Northern Warriors’ Johnson Charles leads the run charts with 204 runs, while Deccan Gladiators’ Tom Kohler-Cadmore has been equally explosive, scoring 151 runs, including a stunning 78 off 29 balls. Quetta Qavalry’s Khwaja Nafay remains undefeated this season with 144 runs and 12 sixes. On the bowling front, Aspin Stallions’ Zohair Iqbal leads with nine wickets, closely followed by Qavalry’s Khuzaima Tanveer and Vista Riders’ Andrew Tye, each with seven wickets. The Abu Dhabi T10 continues to deliver thrilling cricket, with 34 matches scheduled over two action-packed weeks.
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British columnist Melanie Phillips lashes out at Palestinians at pro-Israel NYC event
British columnist and broadcaster Melanie Phillips has ignited a firestorm of controversy with her recent remarks at the ‘Rage Against the Hate’ conference held at the Museum of Jewish Heritage in New York City. Organized by Shurat HaDin, an Israeli legal organization known for its efforts to counter international law violations by the Israeli government, the event aimed to unite Jewish and pro-Israeli activists globally. During her twenty-minute speech, Phillips made several contentious statements, including the assertion that ‘there is no such thing as the Palestinian people’ and that only Jewish people have a legitimate claim to historic Palestine. She argued that the Jewish people are the indigenous inhabitants of the land and possess an entitlement rooted in law, history, and morality. Phillips also criticized the West for what she described as a ‘death wish’ in the face of what she termed a ‘death cult’ within the forces of Islam. She accused the Palestinian cause of being a ‘holy war’ and a ‘Trojan Horse for the Islamisation of the West,’ suggesting that the West is complicit in its own destruction. Phillips’ speech drew sharp criticism, particularly for her historical comparisons and her previous writings on Islamophobia, which have been labeled as antisemitic by some Jewish organizations. Her remarks have reignited debates over the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the broader implications of her views on international relations and religious tolerance.