Meta has unveiled a new feature called ‘ghost posts’ on its Threads app, designed to automatically archive posts 24 hours after they are published. This innovation mirrors the popular ‘stories’ feature found on Instagram and Facebook, aiming to increase user engagement and provide more flexible sharing options. The feature allows users to share spontaneous, unfiltered thoughts without the concern of long-term visibility, fostering a more casual and immediate form of communication. To create a ghost post, users simply toggle the ghost icon in the post creation menu, and these posts are distinguished in the feed by a grayed-out dotted chat bubble. Replies to ghost posts are sent directly to users’ messaging inboxes, maintaining privacy by not displaying likes or replies publicly. Launched in 2023 as a competitor to Elon Musk’s X, Threads has rapidly grown to 400 million active users as of August. Meta’s introduction of ghost posts is a strategic move to further solidify its position in the competitive social media landscape.
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Brother of journalist killed in occupied West Bank says new report reveals cover-up
Three years after the tragic killing of Palestinian-American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh by the Israeli army, new allegations have surfaced suggesting a US cover-up. Tony Abu Akleh, the brother of the slain Al Jazeera correspondent, claims that a retired US military officer, Colonel Steve Gabavics, has revealed that his superiors and the Biden administration softened findings to protect US-Israel relations. Colonel Gabavics, who investigated the incident, concluded in 2022 that Ms. Abu Akleh was intentionally shot, despite wearing a press vest clearly identifying her as a journalist. The Israeli army initially blamed Palestinian gunmen for her death but later admitted she was likely killed by its soldiers by mistake. The Biden administration supported this narrative, stating it found no evidence of intentional targeting. However, Colonel Gabavics now asserts that the evidence pointed to a deliberate act, and the findings were altered for political reasons. Tony Abu Akleh criticized the US government for downplaying the truth, accusing it of prioritizing political interests over justice. He called for accountability and a thorough investigation into his sister’s death. The BBC has reached out to the US Department of State and the Israeli embassy in Washington for comment. The case has reignited debates about US-Israel relations and the safety of journalists in conflict zones.
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UAE’s AI market set to soar to Dh170 billion by 2030
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is on track to become a global leader in Artificial Intelligence (AI) innovation, with its AI market projected to soar to Dh170 billion ($46.33 billion) by 2030, according to a comprehensive study by Grand View Research (GVR). This growth is part of a broader regional boom, with the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) AI market expected to expand nearly fifteen-fold from $11.92 billion (Dh43.7 billion) in 2023 to $166.33 billion (Dh610 billion) by 2030, growing at an annual rate of 44.8%. The UAE’s strategic investments and policies, including its Strategic Plan 2031, are driving this transformation, positioning the country as a pioneer in AI adoption and development. Nearly 75% of UAE companies have maintained or increased their AI investments in the past year, with machine learning and deep learning technologies leading the charge in sectors like healthcare, logistics, and financial services. The AI healthcare market in the MENA region, valued at $193.1 million (Dh709 million) in 2023, is projected to reach $1.47 billion (Dh5.39 billion) by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 33.6%. Similarly, the legal AI sector, currently at $43.3 million (Dh159 million), is expected to nearly triple to $121.5 million (Dh446 million) by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 18%. The UAE’s leadership in AI integration is further bolstered by government-led digital transformation agendas, rapid urbanisation, and the deployment of AI-enabling technologies such as 5G, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT). As Swayam Dash, Managing Director at GVR, noted, the UAE is not just adopting global AI technologies but shaping its own playbook, setting benchmarks for governance and growth in the digital age.
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Crescent Enterprises and Majarra partnership expands knowledge access for thousands of Arab youth
Crescent Enterprises, a prominent multinational business based in the UAE, has joined forces with Majarra, the leading Arabic digital knowledge platform, to expand their Renaissance Partners Program. This initiative aims to break down barriers to knowledge by providing free subscriptions to Majarra’s premium content for over 10,000 young individuals across the Arab world. The program offers access to renowned publications such as Harvard Business Review, MIT Technology Review, and Popular Science, all available in Arabic. A notable achievement of the partnership is the increased participation of women, now representing over one-third of beneficiaries, up from one-fifth a year ago, thanks to targeted campaigns promoting gender equity. Ola Al Haj Hussin, Corporate Citizenship Manager at Crescent Enterprises, emphasized the transformative power of knowledge in fostering innovation and progress. Dia Haykal, Director of Brand and Partnerships at Majarra, highlighted the platform’s mission to make global knowledge accessible in Arabic and inspire the next generation of knowledge creators. Mo’men Abou Yousef, a beneficiary from Palestine, shared how the program enriched his educational journey with practical insights delivered through diverse formats. Majarra’s extensive library of over 70,000 content pieces, including articles, videos, and podcasts, solidifies its position as the premier Arabic content provider. The Renaissance Partners Program continues to accept applications, offering free access to resources that support learning, professional growth, and community empowerment.
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Dutch volleyball player and convicted child rapist denied visa to compete in Australia
Steven van de Velde, a Dutch Olympic volleyball player convicted of raping a 12-year-old British girl in 2014, has been denied a visa to compete in Australia. The 31-year-old athlete was scheduled to participate in the Beach Volleyball World Championships in Adelaide next month. However, South Australia’s Attorney-General Kyam Maher urged the federal government to reject his visa, describing his crimes as ‘utterly abhorrent’ and emphasizing that foreign child sex offenders should not be allowed entry into the country. Australia’s Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke affirmed the government’s commitment to using all available tools to ensure community safety. Van de Velde, who pleaded guilty to three counts of rape in 2016, served 12 months of a four-year sentence before resuming his professional career in 2018. Despite representing the Netherlands at the Paris Olympics last year, he faced public backlash, including boos from the crowd and an online petition with 90,000 signatures demanding his exclusion from the event. The BBC has reached out to the event organizers and the Dutch volleyball association for comments.
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The 92-year-old president who never loses
In a widely anticipated yet contentious outcome, Cameroon’s Constitutional Council has declared 92-year-old President Paul Biya the winner of the recent presidential election, marking his eighth consecutive term in office. Biya, the world’s oldest head of state, secured 53.7% of the vote, while his primary challenger, former government minister Issa Tchiroma Bakary, garnered 35.2%. The announcement, made on Monday, has sparked a mix of shock and disillusionment among Cameroonians, many of whom had hoped for a change in leadership. Biya’s decision to seek another seven-year term, after already ruling for 43 years, has been met with criticism, particularly regarding his governance style and frequent absences from the country. His extended stays in Geneva and other undisclosed locations have fueled speculation about his actual involvement in governing Cameroon, with many suggesting that key decisions are made by Prime Minister Ferdinand Ngoh Ngoh and other senior officials. Biya’s inscrutable leadership, characterized by a lack of public engagement and formal cabinet meetings, has left many questioning the direction of his administration. Despite these concerns, Biya has maintained his grip on power, balancing Cameroon’s complex social, regional, and linguistic divides. His regime has sporadically cracked down on dissent, detaining vocal critics and suppressing protests. However, his ability to navigate the country’s internal tensions and maintain financial stability has also contributed to his longevity. The recent election, however, has highlighted growing discontent, particularly in the English-speaking regions, where a bloody crisis has exposed the limits of Biya’s cautious approach. Opposition supporters have accused Biya of rigging the election, and tensions have escalated, with reports of security forces shooting protesters in Douala and Garoua. As Biya embarks on another term, the question remains whether Cameroonians will continue to tolerate his semi-authoritarian rule or demand a more decisive change in leadership.
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UAE firm provided technology for China to upgrade missiles: Report
In a revelation that has sparked significant geopolitical tension, US intelligence agencies discovered in 2022 that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) provided China with advanced technology to enhance the range of its air-to-air missiles. According to a report by The Financial Times, the technology was transferred by G42, the UAE’s leading AI group, chaired by Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed al-Nahyan, the country’s national security adviser. The technology was reportedly passed on to Chinese tech giant Huawei, which utilized it to upgrade China’s PL-15 and PL-17 missiles, potentially giving China a strategic advantage over the US in aerial combat. The technology included software to optimize missile flight, though it remains unclear whether G42 was aware it would be used by China’s People’s Liberation Army. While the UAE may not have violated any laws, the transaction has raised concerns among US officials about the implications for future cooperation with the Gulf state. The advanced nature of the technology could provide Chinese fighter jets with a tactical edge in potential conflicts, particularly over Taiwan. This incident has further strained US-UAE relations, which were already under pressure due to disagreements over Middle Eastern and European policies, as well as the UAE’s perceived alignment with China in technology and military projects. The Biden administration has previously expressed concerns about the UAE’s ties with China, including its involvement in a Chinese port project near Abu Dhabi. Meanwhile, the UAE’s recent agreement to purchase advanced AI chips from Nvidia has faced delays, with US officials reportedly seeking to restrict direct access to these chips for G42.
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‘Emirates Loves India’ gates close early due to safety concerns; organisers issue apology
The much-anticipated ‘Emirates Loves India’ community celebration at Zabeel Park in the UAE faced an unexpected setback as authorities were compelled to close the gates early due to safety concerns. The event, which aimed to celebrate the cultural ties between Emiratis and the Indian community, drew an overwhelming crowd, prompting organisers to take precautionary measures. Despite opening in the afternoon with cars queuing from 1pm, many visitors arriving later were turned away by security personnel. Heavy patrols were deployed throughout the park to ensure crowd safety. In the aftermath, organisers issued a public apology to those unable to attend, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming response and understanding of the situation. The event, which featured performances by renowned artists like Neha Kakkar and Mika Singh, as well as yoga guru Baba Ramdev, showcased the vibrant creativity and rich talent of the Indian community in the UAE. Attendees enjoyed a lively mix of folk dances, traditional fashion, handmade crafts, and popular Indian dishes, creating a festive atmosphere that celebrated friendship and cultural harmony. However, for many like Damodar Basnet, Parvati Jishi, and Jamuna KC, the day ended in disappointment as they were unable to enter the venue due to the overwhelming crowd. Organisers acknowledged the challenges faced and reiterated their commitment to ensuring safety in future events.
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History beckons as UAE eye Asian Youth Games endurance gold
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is poised to make equestrian history at the 2025 Asian Youth Games in Bahrain, as it seeks to become the first nation to clinch an endurance gold medal. The event, making its debut at the Games, will take place on October 30 at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir. The UAE’s formidable squad includes Essa Rashed Al Mazrouei, Ahmad Abdulrahman Al Bastaki, Ali Abdulla Al Falasi, Humaid Fahad Al Kaabi, and Khalifa Rashed Al Ameemi, who are set to compete in both individual and team categories. Known as a powerhouse in the sport, the UAE team is among the top contenders, drawing significant attention from spectators and competitors alike. Sheikh Rashed bin Dalmook Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Equestrian Club, expressed pride in the team’s preparation, stating, ‘Their dedication, discipline, and passion have already made the nation proud. We are confident they will deliver outstanding results.’ Ahmed Rashed Al Kaabi, General Manager of Dubai Equestrian Club, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the team’s commitment to excellence and unity. Meanwhile, the UAE has already made waves at the Games, amassing 18 medals, including seven golds, six silvers, and five bronzes. Notable achievements include gold medals in camel racing and show jumping, as well as a bronze in swimming. The UAE currently ranks sixth overall in the medal standings, trailing leaders China and Uzbekistan. With its athletes continuing to shine, the UAE is solidifying its reputation as a dominant force in regional and international sports.
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‘Absurd’: India’s widespread crackdown on Muslims saying ‘I Love Muhammad’
Since early October, Indian authorities have intensified a controversial campaign targeting Muslim communities across several states. Thousands of Muslims have been arrested, numerous buildings demolished, and internet services shut down in predominantly Muslim neighborhoods. The catalyst for this crackdown appears to be the widespread display of the phrase “I Love Muhammad” on banners, T-shirts, and social media, which authorities claim threatens public order. However, human rights activists argue that these actions are part of a broader, systemic effort to suppress India’s Muslim minority. According to the Association for Protection of Civil Rights (APCR), over 4,500 Muslims have been charged, and 265 arrested nationwide, with 89 arrests occurring in Bareilly alone. The first incident occurred on September 4 in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, during Milad-un-Nabi, a festival celebrating the Prophet Muhammad’s birth. A group of Muslims installed an illuminated sign reading “I Love Muhammad,” which some Hindus deemed provocative. This minor dispute quickly escalated into a national controversy, with young Muslims across India taking to the streets to assert their faith. Authorities responded with a heavy-handed crackdown, including arrests, property demolitions, and internet blackouts. Critics, including Aakar Patel of Amnesty International, have condemned these actions as violations of constitutional rights, including freedom of expression and due process. The situation has raised concerns about India’s commitment to secularism and religious freedom, particularly under the Modi government, which has been accused of promoting Hindu nationalism. With state elections approaching, observers warn that such crackdowns may intensify, further marginalizing India’s Muslim population.