International

International – NEN Agency

Welcome to the International section of NEN Agency, your gateway to the biggest stories shaping our world. From geopolitical shifts and diplomatic breakthroughs to global markets, science, culture, and crises, we connect you to events that transcend borders and influence Pakistan’s place on the global stage.

Inside This Category

  • World Politics & Diplomacy: Global power moves, UN updates, and global relations.

  • Global Economy & Trade: Market trends, trade agreements, and economic outlooks.

  • Conflicts & Security: Coverage of wars, peace talks, and humanitarian issues.

  • Science & Technology: Global innovations, climate change, and space exploration.

  • Culture & Society: International arts, sports, and lifestyle trends.

Why Our International Coverage Stands Out
We go beyond the headlines to provide context, analysis, and diverse perspectives, helping readers understand how world events affect local realities.

pakistan saudia nuclear agreement
International

Saudi Arabia and Nuclear-Armed Pakistan Sign Mutual Defence Pact

/

DUBAI/ISLAMABAD, Sept 17 (Reuters) – On Wednesday, Saudi Arabia and nuclear-capable Pakistan formalized a mutual defense agreement, significantly enhancing a security partnership that has spanned decades amidst rising regional tensions. This strengthened defense relationship arises as Gulf Arab nations grow increasingly skeptical about the reliability of the United States as their traditional security provider. The recent Israeli assault on Qatar has intensified these apprehensions. “This agreement is a culmination of years of discussions. This is not a response to specific countries or specific events but an institutionalization of longstanding and deep cooperation between our two countries,” a senior Saudi official told Reuters when asked about its timing. Israel’s airstrikes targeting Hamas political leaders in Doha, while they were engaged in discussions regarding a ceasefire proposal mediated by Qatar, have provoked outrage among Arab nations. The agreement has the potential to alter the strategic dynamics in a region characterized by complexity. As allies of Washington, Gulf monarchies have been striving to stabilize relations with both Iran and Israel to address enduring security issues. However, the ongoing Gaza conflict has disrupted the regional landscape, with Gulf state Qatar experiencing direct attacks on two occasions within a year, once from Iran and once from Israel. The Saudi agreement followed months after Pakistan was involved in a brief military confrontation with its rival India in May. India’s Ministry of External Affairs spokesman, Randhir Jaiswal, stated on the social media platform X on Thursday that India is aware of this development and will assess its implications for New Delhi’s security and regional stability. A senior Saudi official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, recognized the necessity of balancing relations with Pakistan’s rival, India, which is also a nuclear power. “Our relationship with India is more robust than it has ever been. We will continue to grow this relationship and seek to contribute to regional peace in whichever way we can.” When inquired whether Pakistan would be required to extend a nuclear umbrella to Saudi Arabia under the agreement, the official responded: “This is a comprehensive defensive agreement that includes all military capabilities.” Pakistani state television broadcast footage of Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the de facto leader of the kingdom, embracing after the signing of the agreement. Present at the event was Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, who is considered the most influential figure in the country. “This agreement, which reflects the shared commitment of both nations to enhance their security and to achieving security and peace in the region and the world, aims to develop aspects of defense cooperation between the two countries and strengthen joint deterrence against any aggression. The agreement states that any aggression against either country shall be considered an aggression against both,” a statement from the Pakistani prime minister’s office said.

PTV Digital English news channel launch
International

PTV Launches English-Language Digital News Channel ‘PTV Digital’

/

Pakistan Television (PTV) on Wednesday launched its new English-language digital news channel, PTV Digital, aimed at projecting Pakistan’s perspective to global audiences and countering anti-Pakistan narrative Prime Minister Shehbaz officially launched the channel by unveiling a plaque during a ceremony that was attended by Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Information Secretary Ambreen Jan, and other senior officials. This new channel is part of PTV’s initiative to broaden its digital presence and connect with international audiences by sharing Pakistan’s perspectives on both regional and global matters. He also visited various sections of the channel, interacted with young professionals, and commended their enthusiasm, emphasizing that their contributions are essential in countering external narratives. He stated that the passion of young professionals would be “crucial in the struggle against external propaganda.” Shehbaz articulated that the main objective of the platform is to deliver authentic news while effectively addressing misrepresentation and misinformation regarding Pakistan. Additionally, he recorded his inaugural interview for the channel, with excerpts subsequently broadcast by PTV. “If you are on the right path, dedicating yourself wholeheartedly to serve your country, that serves as a significant source of inspiration,” he remarked. When asked about his vision for Pakistan over the next decade, the premier expressed his aspiration to see the nation “standing tall with notable achievements in economic prosperity, peace, and happiness.” In a briefing to the prime minister, Tarar indicated that PTV Digital would act as a credible and proactive voice for the nation, bridging information gaps and fostering public diplomacy through an English-language platform. He highlighted that the channel would concentrate on international affairs, cultural insights, economic advancements, and analyses. He further mentioned that the channel would integrate in-house reporting with a global network of freelancers and collaborations with wire agencies such as Reuters and the Associated Press (AP) to guarantee real-time, verified, and high-quality coverage. He emphasized that this initiative aims to counter the one-sided narratives that are prevalent in Western and Indian-influenced regional media. Tarar concluded by stating that the channel’s strategic aim is to “deliver Pakistan’s story first, before others define it.”

Arab & Muslim countries gather at Doha in solidarity with Qatar after Israel strikes on Doha
International, Middle East

Arab, Muslim Leaders Urge Review of Israel Ties at Doha Summit

/

Doha: Muslim and Arab leaders, meeting in Doha, called for a review of relations with Israel after last week’s deadly attack in Qatar. The assault killed at least six people. Leaders gathered at the joint Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and Arab League (AL) summit and issued a strong declaration:nenagency Joint Declaration Against Israel The statement urged all member states to take firm measures against Israel. These included reviewing diplomatic and economic ties and pursuing legal action over its actions against Palestinians. Leaders stressed that Israel must be held accountable under international law. Participation of Key Nations Among the attendees were Qatar’s Gulf neighbors, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bahrain, as well as Egypt, Jordan, and Morocco. These countries have already recognized Israel. The UAE, Bahrain, and Morocco, which signed the Abraham Accords five years ago, sent senior officials to represent them. Calls for Action The summit aimed to increase pressure on Israel. It came as global calls grew louder for an end to the Gaza war and its humanitarian crisis. Member states also called for joint efforts to push for Israel’s suspension from the United Nations. Emir of Qatar Accuses Israel Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, accused Israel of undermining peace efforts. He said Israel had targeted Hamas negotiators to derail ceasefire talks.“Whoever assassinates the party they are negotiating with clearly seeks to destroy the talks,” he told the leaders. High-Profile Attendees The summit drew several prominent leaders. Among them were Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas. Leaders’ Warnings Iran’s President Pezeshkian warned that no Arab or Islamic capital was safe if unity was lacking.“Tomorrow, it could be the turn of any Arab or Islamic city. The choice is clear—we must unite,” he declared. Turkey’s President Erdogan accused Israel of acting with a “terrorist mentality.” Other leaders also condemned its actions in Gaza. Egypt’s Concerns Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi warned that Israel’s attack in Qatar could derail future peace talks. He also cautioned it might even threaten existing peace deals in the region.

TikTok deal news
International

Donald Trump Hints at TikTok Deal Between US and China

/

U.S. President says talks with Beijing have ‘gone very well’ and plans call with Xi Jinping this week Donald Trump has indicated that a deal has been reached between Washington and Beijing regarding the future operations of the Chinese-owned social media platform TikTok in the US, and he mentioned that he would be speaking with President Xi Jinping later this week. Trump posted on his Truth Social network shortly before the conclusion of two days of US-China trade negotiations in Madrid on Monday, stating that the recent discussions had “gone very well.” In what appears to be a reference to TikTok, he remarked, “A deal was also reached on a ‘certain’ company that young people in our Country very much wanted to save. They will be very happy.” Trump indicated that he would have a conversation with Xi on Friday, adding: “The relationship remains a very strong one!!!” Following the negotiations, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who was leading the US delegation in Madrid, announced that the two nations had established a “framework” deal concerning TikTok, which is set to be approved by Trump and Xi on Friday. The Trump administration has consistently extended a congressionally mandated deadline for TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, to divest its American operations of the video-sharing application or face a nationwide ban in the US. After three extensions since January, the most recent deadline is Wednesday. In remarks to reporters after the discussions in Madrid, Bessent stated that the TikTok framework would place the app under “US-controlled ownership.” However, he refrained from providing additional details, expressing a desire not to “get ahead” of the upcoming call between Trump and Xi on Friday.“We have a framework. They’ll have to confirm the deal,” Bessent said. The trade negotiations taking place in Madrid — which follow three prior rounds in Geneva, London, and Stockholm — occurred as the US and China negotiated the terms of a potential meeting between Trump and Xi next month. The Financial Times reported on Saturday that China had officially invited Trump to Beijing for a summit, yet the White House had not provided a response. The uncertainty in Washington indicates a lack of advancement in discussions regarding broader trade matters and fentanyl, as well as an internal debate within the Trump administration concerning whether the president should meet Xi in Beijing. Individuals familiar with the discussions indicated that some officials were advocating for Trump to meet Xi on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum scheduled for October 31 in South Korea. Resolving the TikTok issue will eliminate one obstacle that has complicated negotiations. However, the two parties have yet to reconcile their differences regarding US demands for China to reduce the export of fentanyl precursor chemicals before the US lowers tariffs associated with fentanyl. Jamieson Greer, the US trade representative who was also present in Madrid, mentioned that one additional deadline extension might be required to finalize the TikTok agreement, but he noted that no further rolling extensions would be granted. While Bessent was still in negotiations with the head of the Chinese delegation, Vice-Premier He Lifeng, China’s State Administration for Market Regulation announced that it had found US chipmaker Nvidia in violation of the country’s antitrust laws. In a preliminary finding, SAMR indicated that Nvidia had not fully adhered to the stipulations set forth during its acquisition of Mellanox Technologies, an Israeli-US supplier of networking products, in 2020. Two individuals familiar with the situation reported that SAMR arrived at its conclusion several weeks ago but chose to release the statement on Monday to enhance China’s negotiating position in the Madrid discussions. When asked whether Nvidia was mentioned during the meeting, Bessent responded: “We discussed the poor timing of the Nvidia investigation on the day of these talks.,“We discussed the poor timing of the Nvidia investigation [on] the day of these talks.”

President Zardari reiterates on enhanced mutual Pak china relations and defense productions in future
International

Pakistan and China will persist in enhancing their cooperation in defense production and aviation, stated President Zardari.

/

On Sunday, President Asif Ali Zardari reiterated that Pakistan and China will persist in enhancing their cooperation in defense production and aviation, thereby further strengthening their enduring strategic cooperative partnership, as stated in a release from the President’s Secretariat. Zardari, currently on a 10-day visit to China, made this assertion during his tour of the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) — the nation’s aerospace and defense conglomerate involved in the design and manufacturing of a diverse array of military and civilian aircraft, including the J-10C fighter jets that Pakistan utilized during a conflict with India in May. The deployment of these aircraft is reported to have been instrumental in downing Indian fighter jets, including Rafales, during the four-day conflict that concluded with a ceasefire on May 10. A statement from the President’s Secretariat today noted: “On the 128th day following the ceasefire with India, President Asif Ali Zardari, who is constitutionally recognized as the supreme commander of Pakistan’s armed forces, visited the Aviation Industry Corporation of China.” President Asif Ali Zardari participated in a meeting in China on September 14. — nenagency As per the statement, the president thoroughly explored the extensive complex and engaged with AVIC’s engineers and scientists, “hearing their perspectives on innovation, production, and future technologies.” He received a briefing on AVIC’s “advanced capabilities, which include the J-10 fighter jet, the collaborative production of the JF-17 Thunder with Pakistan, as well as advancements in the J-20 stealth 5th-generation fighter aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles, fully automated units, and integrated command-and-control systems for contemporary multi-domain operations.” The statement cited the president as stating that “J-10 and JF-17 have significantly bolstered the Pakistan Air Force, a reality that was clearly evidenced during the Maraka-e-Haq and Operation Bunyanum Marsoos in May 2025″. President Asif Ali Zardari visited the Aviation Industry Corporation of China in Chengdu, China on September 14. — nenagency He praised the AVIC as “a representation of China’s technological progress and of the lasting strategic alliance between Pakistan and China”. The statement indicated that Zardari’s visit to the facility was also historic as “no foreign head of state had ever visited the AVIC complex before”. Zardari was joined by his son, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, his daughter, MNA Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari, Senator Saleem Mandviwalla, Pakistan’s Ambassador to China Khalil Hashmi, and China’s Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong, who will accompany the president throughout the visit, it was noted. President Zardari visited the Aviation Industry Corporation of China, accompanied by PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and Member of the National Assembly Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari, in Chengdu, China on September 14. — nenagency The president subsequently arrived in Shanghai. Upon his arrival at the airport, he was warmly welcomed by Chen Qun, vice chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference Shanghai Committee, and Ma Yinghui, director general of the Foreign Affairs Office of Shanghai Municipality, as per another statement. President Zardari arrived in China on Friday, where he is set to engage in discussions with the Chinese leadership and senior officials to further enhance Pakistan-China relations, boost cooperation across various sectors, and promote shared goals. He will also travel to Shanghai and the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region to hold meetings with the leadership there, according to a prior statement from the Foreign Office. The discussions will cover the bilateral relations between Pakistan and China, emphasizing economic and trade collaboration, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, and future connectivity projects, as stated. Furthermore, the visit highlights the longstanding tradition of high-level exchanges between Pakistan and China, demonstrating the profound commitment of both nations to enhance their relationship.

Arab-Islamic Summit in Qatar After Israel’s Doha Attack
International

Leaders Gather for Arab-Islamic Summit in Qatar After Israel’s Doha Attack

/

Qatar is pursuing a unified response to Israel, which has launched attacks on multiple other nations while relentlessly bombarding Gaza. Leaders from various parts of the region are convening in the capital of Qatar to deliberate on a formal reaction to Israel’s strikes on Doha that occurred last week, which Israel claimed were aimed at Hamas leadership and had repercussions throughout the Middle East and beyond. Israel initiated the missile strikes while Hamas members were assembled in their Doha office to negotiate a deal suggested by United States President Donald Trump, aimed at concluding Israel’s two-year genocidal campaign against Gaza. The assault took place mere hours after Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Saar asserted that Israel had agreed to the Trump proposal, which would involve the release of all 48 captives held by Hamas in Gaza in return for Palestinian prisoners detained by Israel and a ceasefire. In the course of the attack, Israel eliminated five Hamas members and a Qatari security official, although it did not succeed in killing the Hamas leadership it claimed to be targeting. The United Nations Security Council condemned the attack unanimously on Thursday. How is Qatar responding? Qatar has extended invitations to leaders from Arab and Islamic nations for discussions that will lead to the emergency Arab-Islamic summit scheduled for Monday. Majed bin Mohammed al-Ansari, spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, informed the Qatar News Agency (QNA) that “the summit will address a draft resolution concerning the Israeli assault,” which represents yet another example of “state terrorism perpetrated by Israel.” On Sunday, a gathering of foreign ministers will focus on the draft, which is anticipated to contribute to the growing international outcry against the Israeli assault. Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, who met with Trump in New York on Friday, stated that Qatar will seek a unified response to the attack, which has endangered the entire region. Qatar has historically played a mediating role, striving to bring an end to Israel’s conflict in Gaza and foster regional solidarity. Who is attending? Leaders from the 57-member Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the 22-member Arab League will attend. Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian is confirmed to attend, as are Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. On Saturday, Iran’s security chief Ali Larijani issued what he called a “warning to Islamic governments” and said they must “form a ‘joint operations room’ against the madness” of Israel instead of resorting to mere statements. The full list of dignitaries in attendance on Monday is yet to be confirmed. What can come out of the summit? Leaders from the 57-member Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the 22-member Arab League are set to participate. Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian is confirmed to be in attendance, along with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. On Saturday, Iran’s security chief Ali Larijani issued what he termed a “warning to Islamic governments,” stating that they must “establish a ‘joint operations room’ against the madness” of Israel rather than merely issuing statements. The complete list of dignitaries expected to attend on Monday has yet to be finalized. What outcomes can be anticipated from the summit? A strongly worded statement condemning Israel is assured at the summit. The leaders will deliberate on possible actions they could undertake to counter Israeli aggression throughout the region. Israel has also conducted bombings in Iran, Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen, as its genocidal campaign in Gaza and military operations in the occupied West Bank persist unabated. The sense of security that Qatar and its neighboring states have enjoyed has been disrupted, which may lead them to pursue new security or defense arrangements with the US that extend beyond mere arms purchases. However, there are political factors to consider, particularly as Washington continues to provide unwavering support to Israel despite increasing international discontent. As ministers and leaders arrived in Doha on Sunday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio traveled to Israel to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other senior officials. Among other topics, they are likely to discuss plans to annex significant portions of the West Bank. This plan has been characterized by the United Arab Emirates, a participant in the US-sponsored Abraham Accords aimed at normalizing relations with Israel, as a “red line” that would jeopardize the agreement. Saudi Arabia and other regional nations that Israel and the US are considering as potential future members of the Accords are perceived by analysts to be further away than ever from normalizing relations with Israel. Among the instruments available to nations for addressing rogue aggression are measures such as the reduction of diplomatic relations. Arab nations, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and the UAE, possess significant financial resources that can be utilized as leverage, along with substantial sovereign wealth funds invested internationally, which could lead to restrictions on Israel, such as trade limitations. Qatar has indicated that a portion of its response will involve legal actions, including the pursuit of Israeli breaches of international law.

China punishment, Xiaohongshu app, content violations, social media regulation, Chinese apps, tech news
International

China Imposes Punishment on Xiaohongshu App Over Content Violations

/

On Thursday, China’s internet regulatory authority announced that it had mandated “warnings and strict penalties” for the executives of the widely used social media application Xiaohongshu due to its online content, criticizing posts deemed “trivial” and “negative.” A statement issued by the Cyberspace Administration of China indicated that “responsible individuals” at the Instagram-like platform would face penalties after Xiaohongshu, referred to as RedNote in English, did not “fulfil its main responsibility of content management.” No specifics regarding the punishments were provided. The statement condemned Xiaohongshu for allowing “numerous posts promoting celebrities’ personal affairs and trivial issues, along with other negative content that frequently appears on the hot search list.” It further stated, “A clear, clean, and healthy cyberspace is in the best interest of the people.” Xiaohongshu was established in Shanghai in 2013 and boasts hundreds of millions of monthly active users. The name translates literally to Little Red Book, but it does not refer to the book of quotations by Chinese communist leader Mao Zedong. In contrast to TikTok’s sister app Douyin or the micro-blogging platform Weibo, Xiaohongshu focuses significantly on apolitical content, including lifestyle, travel, beauty, and food topics. The “Explore” page of Xiaohongshu resembles TikTok’s “For You” page, with both being curated by algorithms that recommend content based on users’ interests and interactions on the respective platforms. Additionally, it functions as an online marketplace akin to TikTok Shop, where users can purchase items such as clothing, makeup, and accessories directly. It is perceived as relatively less censored compared to other platforms; users can be seen sharing LGBTQ content and discussing the advantages of women remaining single, subjects that are often deemed sensitive in China. Xiaohongshu has also popularized “da ka,” or “check-in” tourism, where travelers design itineraries around picturesque or trending locations specifically to capture photos for social media. Similar to Instagram and TikTok, the platform has also evolved into a center for influencers promoting sponsored products.

PM Shehbaz Leaves for Qatar
International, National News

PM Shehbaz Leaves for Qatar to Show Solidarity After Israeli Attack (FO)

/

On Thursday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif left for Qatar to convey “solidarity and regional unity” following Israeli airstrikes that struck residential areas in Doha earlier this week, according to the Foreign Office (FO). On Tuesday, Israel conducted an airstrike targeting Hamas leaders in Doha, the capital of Qatar, thereby broadening its military operations across the Middle East to encompass the Gulf Arab nation where the Palestinian organization has maintained its political stronghold for an extended period. As reported by Hamas sources, the representatives of the group were struck while engaged in discussions regarding United States President Donald Trump’s ceasefire proposal for Gaza. Qatar denounced the assault as “cowardly” and labeled it a blatant infringement of international law. According to a statement from the Foreign Office, “PM Shehbaz, along with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and a high-ranking delegation, will meet with Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani today to express Islamabad’s condolences and support for the Gulf state.” The statement further emphasized, “The visit highlights Pakistan’s steadfast support for the security and sovereignty of Qatar, as well as its dedication to fostering peace and stability in the Middle East.” It continued, “The prime minister is scheduled to meet with His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in Doha to extend Pakistan’s heartfelt sympathies and support for the Qatari leadership and its people.” As reported by the state-run Associated Press of Pakistan, their discussions “will also encompass consultations regarding Israel’s unjustified assaults on various nations in the region, its persistent aggression, and initiatives aimed at establishing peace in the area.” Doha and Egypt have played crucial roles in US-supported efforts to negotiate a ceasefire in Gaza, working diligently to facilitate an agreement that would result in the release of prisoners from both sides. Qatar and Pakistan enjoy robust diplomatic relations, founded on their common faith and values. Earlier this month, the two nations reaffirmed their dedication to regional peace and stability during a meeting between Pakistan’s senior military official, General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, and the Qatari military leadership during his visit to Qatar.

Apple Unveils iPhone 17 Air
International, Technology

Apple Unveils iPhone 17 Air | AI Features & Global Tariff Impact

/

The Silicon Valley powerhouse conducted its annual iPhone release event amidst increasing pressures: the White House is urging the company to lessen its reliance on Chinese manufacturing, while investors are questioning whether Apple is genuinely prepared for the AI era. Compounding these difficulties, the company is encountering challenges from President Donald Trump’s elevated tariff policies. Since the Republicans assumed office in January, Apple shares have declined by more than three percent. In light of this situation, Apple is wagering on a product that it anticipates will ignite a super-cycle of iPhone purchases and reverse the trend of customers retaining their devices for longer periods before upgrading. “The event illustrates Apple navigating around the core of the AI arms race while establishing itself as a long-term innovator in the AI hardware sector, focusing on silicon and device-level integration,” stated Emarketer analyst Gadjo Sevilla. To rejuvenate its brand, Apple unveiled the iPhone 17 Air, which CEO Tim Cook described as “a total game changer.” Measuring just 5.6mm thick (less than a quarter inch), the $999 device is equipped with Apple’s new A19 Pro processor — the most powerful iPhone chip to date — and promises all-day battery life with up to 40 hours of video playback. The Air is added to Apple’s more conventional lineup, which includes the premium iPhone Pro 17, the company’s most costly and highest-performing model. While all new devices feature generative AI technology, Apple did not make any significant announcements regarding the expansion of its AI capabilities beyond updates to existing features in its “Apple Intelligence” suite. The company’s AI initiative has struggled to gain momentum since the launch of “Apple Intelligence” late last year. Users have expressed particular disappointment with enhancements to Siri, which remains surprisingly basic despite years of commitments. Apple is reportedly planning to incorporate AI into online search next year and revamp Siri, although the company has not verified these claims. The tech giant is also rumored to be collaborating with Google to leverage its search capabilities. In order to effectively distinguish itself and outperform its competitors, Apple must successfully implement AI as a new contextual user interface on its devices,” stated Forrester analyst Thomas Husson in a recent note. “The execution of such an ambitious AI strategy will require time. It is unlikely to materialize before next year, potentially coinciding with the iPhone’s 20th anniversary in 2027,” he further commented. Transition to iPhone Air Industry analysts view the iPhone Air as a strategic shift, with Apple emphasizing an ultra-thin design — rather than larger screens — as its new premium selling feature. The ultra-slim design may also set the stage for Apple’s long-anticipated foldable iPhone, which is expected to debut as soon as next year. Competitors like Samsung and China’s Huawei have already launched foldable smartphones. Nevertheless, engineering such slender devices poses challenges: increased production costs and limited battery space, although Apple asserts that the iPhone 17 Air can achieve a 24-hour battery life when fully charged. Despite tariffs that elevate production costs, Apple has maintained the same pricing for the iPhone models compared to last year — a decision that could potentially pressure profit margins. Cook disclosed in July that Trump’s tariffs resulted in an $800 million cost to Apple in the last quarter, with an anticipated impact of $1.1 billion expected in the current quarter. Following the announcement of pricing details, Apple shares declined by 1.40%, reflecting investor apprehensions regarding the company’s capacity to sustain its profit margins. Additionally, Apple unveiled the AirPods Pro 3, which feature improved noise cancellation and real-time translation capabilities, alongside the Apple Watch Series 11, which boasts 5G connectivity, extended battery life, and heart health monitoring features pending regulatory approval. Published by NENAgency — delivering reliable news and informed perspectives

Israeli Airstrike Targets Hamas Leaders in Qatar, Ceasefire Talks at Risk
International, Military

Israeli Airstrike Targets Hamas Leaders in Qatar, Ceasefire Talks at Risk

/

DOHA, Sept 9 (nenagency) – Israel launched an airstrike against Hamas leaders in Qatar on Tuesday, expanding its military actions that have ranged across the Middle East to include the Gulf Arab state where the Palestinian Islamist group has long had its political base. Qatar, which has acted as a mediator alongside Egypt in talks on a ceasefire in the almost two-year-old war in Gaza, condemned the attack as “cowardly” and called it a flagrant violation of international law. Two Hamas sources told Reuters that Hamas officials in the ceasefire negotiating team survived the attack, which followed an evacuation order in Gaza City where Israel is waging an offensive to try to destroy the group and its military capabilities in the Gaza Strip. Israeli officials told Reuters the strike was aimed at top Hamas leaders including Khalil al-Hayya, its exiled Gaza chief and top negotiator. The attack took place shortly after Hamas’ armed wing, the al-Qassam Brigades, claimed responsibility for a shooting that killed six people at a bus stop on the outskirts of Jerusalem on Monday. The assault is likely to deal a serious, if not fatal, blow to efforts to reach a ceasefire, especially since negotiations took place in the Gulf Arab country Qatar. The United Arab Emirates, which normalised relations with Israel under the Abraham Accords in 2020, called the Israeli attack on Doha “blatant and cowardly”. Abu Dhabi was already angry over an Israeli minister’s plan for annexation in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, saying that was a red line that cannot be crossed. Regional power Saudi Arabia denounced what it called a “brutal Israeli aggression” against Qatar’s sovereignty. AMBULANCES GATHER AROUND ATTACK SITE The Israeli military, meanwhile, issued evacuation orders for residents of Gaza City, causing panic and confusion, after Israel said it was about to obliterate the area in an assault to wipe out Hamas. Residents of Gaza’s biggest urban area, home to a million Palestinians before the war, have been expecting an onslaught for weeks, since the Israeli government devised a plan to deal Hamas a fatal blow in what it says are the group’s last strongholds. Several blasts were heard in Qatar’s Doha, Reuters witnesses said. Plumes of black smoke were billowing from the city’s Legtifya petrol station. Next door to the petrol station is a small residential compound that has been guarded by Qatar’s Emiri Guard 24 hours a day since the beginning of the Gaza conflict. Ambulances and at least 15 police and unmarked government cars thronged the streets around the blast site an hour after the strike. Israel has killed several top Hamas leaders since the Palestinian militant group attacked Israel in October 2023, killing 1,200 people and taking 251 hostage, according to Israeli tallies. Israel has also launched airstrikes and other military action in Lebanon, Syria, Iran and Yemen in the course of the Gaza conflict. In Lebanon, it attacked the heavily armed Iran-backed group Hezbollah and in Yemen it launched airstrikes on the Iran-aligned Houthi group. Both groups have launched strikes on Israel during the Gaza conflict. T

Scroll to Top