GAZA TRUCE A VITAL STEP TOWARDS PEACE: A four-day ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip has officially commenced. This temporary pause aims to facilitate the release of numerous hostages held by Hamas and Palestinians detained in Israel. Since the October 7 attack by Hamas, over 2.3 million Palestinians in Gaza have endured Israeli air strikes and ground assaults. The conflict has resulted in the loss of 1,200 lives in Israel. Israel's bombardment has claimed over 14,500 lives in Gaza. The latest diplomatic breakthrough is crucial in this context. It allows for the provision of aid to the millions of Palestinians trapped in the enclave and addresses the need for the release of hostages. Upholding this truce is of paramount importance in fostering a stable environment in the region. (By Sadiq Shaban, Opinion Editor)
Image Credit: AFP
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DUBAI METRO BLUE LINE IS ON: In a groundbreaking move, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, has given the green light to Dubai's most significant public transport initiative yet – the Dh18 billion ($4.9 billion) Dubai Metro Blue Line project. Spanning an impressive 30km, half of which is underground at depths of up to 70 meters, this ambitious venture is poised to revolutionise the city's public transportation network. Serving an estimated 1 million residents across various neighbourhoods, the Blue Line will connect key areas such as Dubai Creek Marina, Festival City, International City, Rashidiya, Al Warqaa, Mirdif, Silicon Oasis, and Academic City. The anticipated daily commute of 320,000 new passengers is expected to integrate into the lives of Dubai's residents. Since its inception in 2009, the Dubai Metro has served as an integral part of the city's economic and social fabric. The approval of the Blue Line project ensures that Dubai's lifeline continues to serve billions more in the decades to come. (By Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor)
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MAX VERSTAPPEN RULES THE RACE TRACK: Max Verstappen’s success began in UAE. Three years ago the Dutch driver edged out seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton for his first title in the last lap of the F1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. From there, it was no looking back for the 26-year-old, who has been constantly increasing the gap between him and his rivals to a mile now. The Red Bull ace won the Driver’s title midway through the season, leaving all his rivals in awe. Now, he’s set to be crowned for the third time in the season finale in UAE, underlining his status among the elite. Come new season, he will have to start from scratch, but for now he’s the king of the race track. (By A.K.S. SATISH, Sports Editor)
Image Credit: Virendra Saklani/Gulf News
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MARRAKECH INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL GETS UNDERWAY: Several film festivals in the region, including thr El Gouna Film Festival in Egypt, cancelled their events due to the Israel-Hamas conflict, but a few are marching ahead with their plans. Tonight, the celebrated and much revered Marrakech International Film Festival, will kick off with a star-studded ceremony. Hollywood heavyweights like Jessica Chastain, Martin Scorsese, Tilda Swinton, and James Bond villain Mads Mikkelsen from ‘Casino Royals, is expected to join this year’s edition. It’s one of the few festivals of this scale that’s open to the public. Masterclasses are free, making it a cultural milestone for Morocco. As they say, the show must go on or at least Marrakech believes so. Gulf News is on the ground to get you all the scoop and glitter. Stay tuned. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)
Image Credit: Shutterstock
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