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Pakistan signed the Mecca Defence Pact with Saudi Arabia and Turkiye with a very clear promise: an armed attack on one member would be treated as an attack on all three. So here's an uncomfortable question for Field Marshal Asim Munir: what is the impact of this pact?Where is this pact when the Saudis are being attacked by Houthis?Saudi Arabia is facing repeated Houthi missile and drone attacks. Riyadh has been seeking additional military assistance.And what's Pakistan's response?They condemned it. They called for restraint.But no military response under the Mecca Pact.And here's Munir's rather weak reason for not getting involved: the agreement still needs mechanisms and frameworks before its operationalised.That creates an awkward little problem: if an attack on one is an attack on all, when exactly does "all" actually mean all?There is another irony Pakistan cannot escape. While presenting itself as a pillar of regional security, Pakistan is killing civilians in Afghanistan.Just today, Pakistan carried out airstrikes inside Afghanistan, killing 3 locals.Was the Mecca Pact designed as a defence alliance or as a diplomatic declaration that sounds strongest before the first shot is fired?Alliances are ultimately tested not by signatures, ceremonies or speeches. They are tested when an ally calls for help.The Mecca Pact is being tested by reality, and it seems to be failing so far.

The Mecca Defence Pact faces scrutiny as Houthi attacks target Saudi Arabia while Pakistan has not mounted a military response.

Pakistan signed the Mecca Defence Pact with Saudi Arabia and Turkiye with a very clear promise: an armed attack on one member would be treated as an attack on all three. So here's an uncomfortable question for Field Marshal Asim Munir: what is the impact of this pact? Where is this pact when the Saudis are being attacked by Houthis? Saudi Arabia is facing repeated Houthi missile and drone attacks. Riyadh has been seeking additional military assistance. And what's Pakistan's response? They condemned it. They called for restraint. But no military response under the Mecca Pact. And here's Munir's rather weak reason for not getting involved: the agreement still needs mechanisms and frameworks before its operationalised. That creates an awkward little problem: if an attack on one is an attack on all, when exactly does "all" actually mean all? There is another irony Pakistan cannot escape. While presenting itself as a pillar of regional security, Pakistan is killing civilians in Afghanistan. Just today, Pakistan carried out airstrikes inside Afghanistan, killing 3 locals. Was the Mecca Pact designed as a defence alliance or as a diplomatic declaration that sounds strongest before the first shot is fired? Alliances are ultimately tested not by signatures, ceremonies or speeches. They are tested when an ally calls for help. The Mecca Pact is being tested by reality, and it seems to be failing so far.

The Mecca Defence Pact faces scrutiny as Houthi attacks target Saudi Arabia while Pakistan has not mounted a military response.

The Verdict | The Mecca Agreement is under scrutiny as Houthis attack Saudis

A political earthquake in eastern Germany. The far-right AfD stormed to victory in Saxony-Anhalt with around 44% of the vote: more than double the CDU's 18.5% and enough to potentially make it the first far-right party to govern a German state since World War II. Turnout hit a record 80%. Lead candidate Ulrich Siegmund called it "history," while co-leader Alice Weidel promised "explosive growth" across Germany. It's a fresh blow for Chancellor Friedrich Merz, whose CDU has now roughly halved its vote share since 2021.

Germany's far-right party Afd has secured top spot in second successive state elections

A major military showdown looms over West Asia. Iran has vowed to bring unseen &amp; deadlier weapons to the battlefield, Donald Trump is ramping up rhetoric with his statements.&nbsp;At the same time, his indecision on Yemen has left Saudi Arabia on its own.&nbsp;All the developments are not unfolding in isolation.&nbsp;Escalation on Iran will fuel tensions in Bab al-Mandeb and become the second chokepoint after Hormuz. And US president seems to be caught in this dilemma.&nbsp;Donald Trump unexpectedly cut short a weekend at Camp David, a secluded presidential complex in rural Maryland, and returned to the White House.&nbsp;The reason behind the move remains unknown.&nbsp;According to a report by New York Times, Saudi Crown Prince convinced Donald Trump to launch strikes on Houthis. US president also asked Pentagon to prepare for the attacks.&nbsp;Commanders had approved target lists, troops were loading bombs onto US warplanes selected for the missions, and the wave of attacks was just about to begin.&nbsp;But by midday on Sunday, Donald Trump reportedly reversed his position and decided not to intervene at the moment. A line of communication is in place between Houthis and the Trump administration.&nbsp;The Yemeni group has refrained from blocking the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, despite having control over the coastal areas along the Red Sea.They are giving free way to commercial vessels, except those linked to Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;Saudi Arabia has scrambled to contain the fallout.&nbsp;But Houthis are escalating their attacks on the kingdom while advancing in the territory controlled by Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces.&nbsp;Saudi Arabia has responded with scores of airstrikes on Houthi-held areas but has failed to curtail their advance.&nbsp;The Yemen based group has also warned Mecca Pact signatories.&nbsp;Houthis said Pakistan and Turkiye should be ready for a decisive and painful response if they provide any military assistance to Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;Meanwhile, US president is walking down a similar path on Iran.&nbsp;Donald Trump has outlined 3 options amid the deadlock—wiping Iran out, letting them rot economically, or making a deal.&nbsp;Iran has responded with a staunch warning—renewal of attacks will change the geography of war, and the world will be astonished by unseen weapons.&nbsp;During a recent encounter, Iranian air defences shot down American drone over the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;UK Maritime Trade Operations also issued a warning regarding Iranian attack on a vessel in the contested waterway.&nbsp;Amid the heated rhetoric, a window of diplomacy is opening up.&nbsp;Iran's President Pezeshkian is scheduled to travel to New York to participate in United Nations General Assembly.&nbsp;There are no direct diplomatic engagements planned with the US, but it will be the first time when a high-level Iranian delegation will be on American soil since the beginning of the war on 28th February this year.&nbsp;Pezeshkian will be flanked by Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi, who made a brief stop in Qatar on his way to New York.&nbsp;According to Doha, mediators are working overtime to revive negotiations between Iran and US.&nbsp;Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi is also in Tehran.&nbsp;However, Iranian media reported that Naqvi is neither carrying a message to Iran nor will Iran send a message to the US through him.

The Yemeni group has refrained from blocking the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, despite having control over the coastal areas along the Red Sea. They are giving free way to commercial vessels, except those linked to Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia has scrambled to contain the fallout.

A major military showdown looms over West Asia. Iran has vowed to bring unseen & deadlier weapons to the battlefield, Donald Trump is ramping up rhetoric with his statements. At the same time, his indecision on Yemen has left Saudi Arabia on its own. All the developments are not unfolding in isolation. Escalation on Iran will fuel tensions in Bab al-Mandeb and become the second chokepoint after Hormuz. And US president seems to be caught in this dilemma. Donald Trump unexpectedly cut short a weekend at Camp David, a secluded presidential complex in rural Maryland, and returned to the White House. The reason behind the move remains unknown. According to a report by New York Times, Saudi Crown Prince convinced Donald Trump to launch strikes on Houthis. US president also asked Pentagon to prepare for the attacks. Commanders had approved target lists, troops were loading bombs onto US warplanes selected for the missions, and the wave of attacks was just about to begin. But by midday on Sunday, Donald Trump reportedly reversed his position and decided not to intervene at the moment. A line of communication is in place between Houthis and the Trump administration. The Yemeni group has refrained from blocking the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, despite having control over the coastal areas along the Red Sea. They are giving free way to commercial vessels, except those linked to Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia has scrambled to contain the fallout. But Houthis are escalating their attacks on the kingdom while advancing in the territory controlled by Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces. Saudi Arabia has responded with scores of airstrikes on Houthi-held areas but has failed to curtail their advance. The Yemen based group has also warned Mecca Pact signatories. Houthis said Pakistan and Turkiye should be ready for a decisive and painful response if they provide any military assistance to Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, US president is walking down a similar path on Iran. Donald Trump has outlined 3 options amid the deadlock—wiping Iran out, letting them rot economically, or making a deal. Iran has responded with a staunch warning—renewal of attacks will change the geography of war, and the world will be astonished by unseen weapons. During a recent encounter, Iranian air defences shot down American drone over the Strait of Hormuz. UK Maritime Trade Operations also issued a warning regarding Iranian attack on a vessel in the contested waterway. Amid the heated rhetoric, a window of diplomacy is opening up. Iran's President Pezeshkian is scheduled to travel to New York to participate in United Nations General Assembly. There are no direct diplomatic engagements planned with the US, but it will be the first time when a high-level Iranian delegation will be on American soil since the beginning of the war on 28th February this year. Pezeshkian will be flanked by Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi, who made a brief stop in Qatar on his way to New York. According to Doha, mediators are working overtime to revive negotiations between Iran and US. Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi is also in Tehran. However, Iranian media reported that Naqvi is neither carrying a message to Iran nor will Iran send a message to the US through him.

The Yemeni group has refrained from blocking the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, despite having control over the coastal areas along the Red Sea. They are giving free way to commercial vessels, except those linked to Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia has scrambled to contain the fallout.

West Asia on the brink: Iran threatens new weapons as Trump weighs war | Race To Power

US President Donald Trump says he is approaching a “big decision” over the next phase of the Iran war. Trump has indicated he is weighing whether to resume large-scale military action against Iran. His remarks come ahead of planned talks with leaders from six Gulf nations on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. Trump has also said Iran wants a deal, but that Tehran is not yet ready. The latest developments come as Washington weighs military action alongside diplomatic efforts to end the conflict.


Houthis and Saudi Arabia trade fresh attacks as Trump weighs next big decision on Iran

Russians have begun three days of voting in the country’s parliamentary election, the first held during wartime since the invasion of Ukraine. With virtually no opposition and electronic voting allowed, the election is expected to reinforce the Kremlin’s political dominance.

Russia holds first parliamentary elections since the beginning of the Ukraine war

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is facing the toughest leadership crisis of his 16-month chancellorship, amid historic electoral setbacks to the far-right AfD and continued economic stagnation. Rising public dissatisfaction is reshaping Germany’s political landscape and putting pressure on the government of Europe’s largest economy.

 Friedrich Merz faces major leadership crisis, major political shift underway in Germany

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has kicked off Likud’s campaign for the October 27 parliamentary election with a speech focused heavily on security. At a campaign event in Tel Aviv, Netanyahu said he and Likud were the only ones who could guarantee Israel’s security, while highlighting Israeli military operations in Iran, Lebanon, Syria and Gaza.

Benjamin Netanyahu kicks off Likud's election campaign with security pitch

Canada is looking across the Atlantic, Europe is holding open the door, and Donald Trump is warning that the emerging relationship could amount to a “hostile act.”European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has proposed making Canada the European Union's first-ever associate member, an unprecedented arrangement designed to take relations between Ottawa and Brussels well beyond their existing trade agreement.The proposed partnership could encompass defence production, technology, artificial intelligence, energy, critical minerals, cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing and the Arctic. Von der Leyen says EU–Canada trade in goods has already grown 75 per cent in less than a decade under CETA.But there is an important caveat: Canada is not joining the European Union.“Associate membership” currently has no established legal status in the EU. The proposal remains undefined, would require the backing of member states and has already prompted questions from European diplomats about how such an arrangement would actually work.Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney nevertheless welcomed the ambition while addressing the European Parliament on Thursday. He argued that deeper cooperation would strengthen Canadian resilience and independence rather than create another global power bloc.Washington's response has been considerably less enthusiastic.Trump called the proposal “laughable” and warned that if he considers it hostile, the United States could impose heavy tariffs or restrict trade with Europe.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/RaceToPower?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RaceToPower</a> | Canada-EU ties &#39;irk&#39; Donald Trump Mark Carney addresses EU lawmakers <a href="https://x.com/eriknjoka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@eriknjoka</a> and <a href="https://x.com/ShivanChanana?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShivanChanana</a> tell you more <a href="https://t.co/XF3g3KvpFI">pic.twitter.com/XF3g3KvpFI</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2100618312040567021?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

France pushed back, saying Washington cannot determine Europe's geopolitical choices. The European Commission insists the proposed partnership is not directed against anybody.That leaves a striking contradiction.Relations between Canada and the United States have deteriorated amid tariffs and broader disputes. Ottawa has consequently sought to reduce its economic dependence on its southern neighbour and deepen relationships elsewhere. Roughly 70 per cent of Canadian exports currently go to the United States.Now Canada's attempt to diversify those relationships is itself provoking another tariff threat.The dispute therefore reaches beyond trade.It raises a larger question about sovereignty and alliances in an increasingly transactional international order: can major powers expect their allies to become more independent while objecting when those allies exercise that independence?Geography will not change.America will remain Canada's neighbour.But being somebody's neighbour does not make you their property.And if Washington pushes traditional partners to look elsewhere, it cannot be surprised when they begin finding each other.

The proposed partnership could encompass defence production, technology, artificial intelligence, energy, critical minerals, cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing and the Arctic. 

Canada is looking across the Atlantic, Europe is holding open the door, and Donald Trump is warning that the emerging relationship could amount to a “hostile act.” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has proposed making Canada the European Union's first-ever associate member, an unprecedented arrangement designed to take relations between Ottawa and Brussels well beyond their existing trade agreement. The proposed partnership could encompass defence production, technology, artificial intelligence, energy, critical minerals, cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing and the Arctic. Von der Leyen says EU–Canada trade in goods has already grown 75 per cent in less than a decade under CETA. But there is an important caveat: Canada is not joining the European Union. “Associate membership” currently has no established legal status in the EU. The proposal remains undefined, would require the backing of member states and has already prompted questions from European diplomats about how such an arrangement would actually work. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney nevertheless welcomed the ambition while addressing the European Parliament on Thursday. He argued that deeper cooperation would strengthen Canadian resilience and independence rather than create another global power bloc. Washington's response has been considerably less enthusiastic. Trump called the proposal “laughable” and warned that if he considers it hostile, the United States could impose heavy tariffs or restrict trade with Europe.

The proposed partnership could encompass defence production, technology, artificial intelligence, energy, critical minerals, cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing and the Arctic.&nbsp;

The Verdict | Hostile to whom? Canada looks to Europe — and Trump threatens tariffs

In a dramatic move on Capitol Hill, Republican Congressman Thomas Massie has introduced articles of impeachment against U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Massie accuses Hegseth of violating the War Powers Resolution by continuing military operations in Iran without congressional authorization. The effort is considered a long shot, but it highlights growing divisions within Republican ranks over U.S. military actions and executive war powers. The Pentagon has defended Hegseth's leadership and rejected the allegations.


Republican Congressman Thomas Massie moves to remove US war secretary Pete Hegseth 

A new public opinion survey suggests a significant shift in Palestinian attitudes, with growing support for negotiations with Israel and declining backing for armed struggle. According to poll findings, more Palestinians now see diplomacy as the preferred path to achieving national goals, while support for violent confrontation has dropped to its lowest level in years. The results come amid ongoing conflict, economic hardship and growing uncertainty about the future of the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.


Poll shows least support for armed struggle among Palestinians, more backing for negotiated solution

Pakistan is facing a deepening energy crisis as soaring global oil prices push petrol and diesel costs to record levels. The latest price hikes come amid disruptions to Middle East energy supplies and rising crude prices, placing fresh pressure on households, businesses and the government. With fuel costs climbing for multiple consecutive revisions, concerns are growing over inflation, transport expenses, electricity generation and the broader economy. Officials have warned that the country may need additional measures to curb fuel consumption and manage the fallout.


Global oil price surge deepens Pakistan's energy crisis, petrol prices hit record high

The FBI director has come under fire once again.&nbsp;This time, it is for an eligibility criterion that has been updated. But the change has triggered confusion and questions from both sides of the political aisle.&nbsp;The change concerns a crime, which has been removed from a long list of activities which make a person ineligible to enrol in the FBI. And that, is bestiality.&nbsp;Kash Patel has removed bestiality as an automatic disqualifier for candidates applying for a job with the FBI.&nbsp;Earlier, the agency disqualified people who acknowledged engaging in crimes, including prostitution or bestiality. But now, it will not be a roadblock for those who have committed these crimes anymore.&nbsp;The move has many reacting with disbelief, including Republican congressional lawmakers who grilled Patel on the matter during a hearing.&nbsp;The toughest questions came from Louisiana senator of the Red Camp, John Kennedy.&nbsp;&nbsp;In his typical style, Kennedy questioned what Patel meant by the term, 'victims of bestiality', further asking if the FBI director was referring to animals.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fbi-director-kash-patel-grilled-over-change-of-hiring-rules-on-bestiality-1789575594461/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/fbi-director-kash-patel-grilled-over-change-of-hiring-rules-on-bestiality-1789575594461/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;But, grinning at the remarks, Patel declined it was a reference to animals; rather, it was about individuals who have been convicted of the unnatural sexual crime.&nbsp;In his defence, the FBI director justified the decision on grounds that many people who are victims of human trafficking get forced to commit criminal and unnatural acts, and they should not be removed from the process of joining the FBI.&nbsp;However, Kennedy's grilling did not end here. The veteran Republican lawmaker went on to question why criminal activities were important to remove or re-adjust and why the FBI would even 'get into it.'&nbsp;Bestiality is the unnatural sexual act between a human and animal. Until now, it was an automatic disqualifier in the FBI enrolment process.&nbsp;However, with the changes introduced by Patel, it no longer remains a roadblock, much to the shock of many.

Earlier, the FBI disqualified people who acknowledged engaging in crimes, including prostitution or bestiality. But now, it will not be a roadblock for those who have committed these crimes anymore. The move has many reacting with disbelief, including Republican congressional lawmakers.

The FBI director has come under fire once again. This time, it is for an eligibility criterion that has been updated. But the change has triggered confusion and questions from both sides of the political aisle. The change concerns a crime, which has been removed from a long list of activities which make a person ineligible to enrol in the FBI. And that, is bestiality. Kash Patel has removed bestiality as an automatic disqualifier for candidates applying for a job with the FBI. Earlier, the agency disqualified people who acknowledged engaging in crimes, including prostitution or bestiality. But now, it will not be a roadblock for those who have committed these crimes anymore. The move has many reacting with disbelief, including Republican congressional lawmakers who grilled Patel on the matter during a hearing. The toughest questions came from Louisiana senator of the Red Camp, John Kennedy. In his typical style, Kennedy questioned what Patel meant by the term, 'victims of bestiality', further asking if the FBI director was referring to animals. https://www.wionews.com/videos/fbi-director-kash-patel-grilled-over-change-of-hiring-rules-on-bestiality-1789575594461/embed But, grinning at the remarks, Patel declined it was a reference to animals; rather, it was about individuals who have been convicted of the unnatural sexual crime. In his defence, the FBI director justified the decision on grounds that many people who are victims of human trafficking get forced to commit criminal and unnatural acts, and they should not be removed from the process of joining the FBI. However, Kennedy's grilling did not end here. The veteran Republican lawmaker went on to question why criminal activities were important to remove or re-adjust and why the FBI would even 'get into it.' Bestiality is the unnatural sexual act between a human and animal. Until now, it was an automatic disqualifier in the FBI enrolment process. However, with the changes introduced by Patel, it no longer remains a roadblock, much to the shock of many.

Earlier, the FBI disqualified people who acknowledged engaging in crimes, including prostitution or bestiality. But now, it will not be a roadblock for those who have committed these crimes anymore. The move has many reacting with disbelief, including Republican congressional lawmakers.

Kash Patel grilled over FBI decision to drop bestiality as hiring disqualifier | Race to Power

Russia is set to hold its first parliamentary election since the start of the Ukraine war, with voting scheduled from September 18-20. President Vladimir Putin has framed the vote as a test of national unity and support for Russian troops fighting in Ukraine. The ruling United Russia party is widely expected to retain control of the 450-seat State Duma, extending its dominance of Russian politics during wartime.


Russia to hold first Parliamentary since the start of war, Putin's united Russia expected to sweep 

India's UPI ecosystem is entering a new phase. Payments up to ₹2,000 will continue to remain free, protecting everyday users and small merchants. However, larger merchant transactions above ₹2,000 will attract a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR), capped at ₹300. Consumers will not pay the charge directly, but the move is aimed at making India's digital payments infrastructure more financially sustainable as UPI volumes continue to surge. The debate now is who ultimately bears the cost of the world's largest real-time payments network.


Rahul Gandhi says PM Modi gave in to pressure from Trump, Congress calls new UPI fee 'Modi tax'

The Houthis have made a major advance along Yemen’s Red Sea coast, capturing the strategic port city of Mocha (Mokha) and moving closer to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints. The development could give the Iran-backed group greater leverage over a key route linking the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and the wider global shipping network. 

Houthi missiles and drones now threaten Red Sea shipping 

FBI Director Kash Patel faced tough questioning from senators over the bureau's decision to stop automatically disqualifying job applicants with a history involving prostitution or bestiality. Patel insisted the change wasn't about lowering standards, it was meant to protect trafficking victims who were coerced into such acts from being unfairly barred from applying. "We did not want to punish victims," he said, while clarifying that voluntary participation would still be a factor considered during vetting.


FBI Director Kash Patel grilled over change of hiring rules on bestiality

A drone approaching Islam's holiest city has brought an old war dangerously close to one of Saudi Arabia's most sensitive red lines.Saudi Arabia says its air defences intercepted and destroyed a Houthi drone south of Mecca before it entered the city's prohibited airspace. Riyadh described the security of the Two Holy Mosques and pilgrims as a “red line.”The Houthis deny targeting Mecca.That dispute matters. But behind it lies a much larger question: after more than a decade of military pressure, why are Yemen's Houthis still capable of putting Saudi Arabia on alert?Since Saudi Arabia intervened in Yemen's civil war in 2015, the Houthis have faced military action involving a remarkable collection of regional and global powers.Yet their military capabilities have expanded.The Associated Press reports that their arsenal now includes ballistic and cruise missiles, drones, anti-ship missiles and naval drones. A 2024 UN experts' report estimated Houthi manpower had increased from around 30,000 in 2015 to as many as 350,000 by 2024. Iran denies arming the Houthis, while UN experts and intercepted weapons shipments have documented extensive military links.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/RaceToPower?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RaceToPower</a> | Saudi Arabia VS Houthi conflict reaches the doorstep of the holy city Air raid alerts sound in Mecca, birthplace of Prophet Muhammad; Houthis deny attack on the holy city<a href="https://x.com/eriknjoka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@eriknjoka</a> and <a href="https://x.com/ShivanChanana?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShivanChanana</a> have more <a href="https://t.co/KBkf2UKs1l">pic.twitter.com/KBkf2UKs1l</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2100255999462666536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The consequences now extend far beyond Yemen.The Houthis have advanced toward the Bab el-Mandeb, the narrow maritime gateway connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden. Saudi oil infrastructure has also come under attack, including disruption to the kingdom's strategically important East-West Pipeline.Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman travelled to Egypt as Riyadh sought regional support. During talks with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, both leaders stressed the importance of securing navigation through the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb.But perhaps the most revealing development is diplomatic.U.S. officials reportedly met Houthi representatives in Oman over the weekend, according to Reuters reporting cited by multiple outlets.That creates an extraordinary picture.Saudi Arabia is talking about deterrence. The Houthis are demonstrating military reach. Washington is exploring diplomacy. And global commerce remains exposed to whatever happens around the Red Sea.Saudi Arabia's warning over Mecca therefore carries significance far beyond one intercepted drone.Because declaring a red line is the easy part.The harder question is what happens when an adversary decides to test it.

The Houthis have advanced toward the Bab el-Mandeb, the narrow maritime gateway connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden. Saudi oil infrastructure has also come under attack, including disruption to the kingdom's strategically important East-West Pipeline.

A drone approaching Islam's holiest city has brought an old war dangerously close to one of Saudi Arabia's most sensitive red lines. Saudi Arabia says its air defences intercepted and destroyed a Houthi drone south of Mecca before it entered the city's prohibited airspace. Riyadh described the security of the Two Holy Mosques and pilgrims as a “red line.” The Houthis deny targeting Mecca. That dispute matters. But behind it lies a much larger question: after more than a decade of military pressure, why are Yemen's Houthis still capable of putting Saudi Arabia on alert? Since Saudi Arabia intervened in Yemen's civil war in 2015, the Houthis have faced military action involving a remarkable collection of regional and global powers. Yet their military capabilities have expanded. The Associated Press reports that their arsenal now includes ballistic and cruise missiles, drones, anti-ship missiles and naval drones. A 2024 UN experts' report estimated Houthi manpower had increased from around 30,000 in 2015 to as many as 350,000 by 2024. Iran denies arming the Houthis, while UN experts and intercepted weapons shipments have documented extensive military links.

The Houthis have advanced toward the Bab el-Mandeb, the narrow maritime gateway connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden. Saudi oil infrastructure has also come under attack, including disruption to the kingdom's strategically important East-West Pipeline.

The Verdict | Mecca, a 'red line' and the Houthis who refuse to go away

Donald Trump says AI safety concerns are a hoax. Sam Altman, Elon Musk and Dario Amodei say AI concerns are real, and regulation is needed.The real issue is bigger than any of these men.Have we humans created a Frankenstein's monster in artificial intelligence?Not entirely. It's helping move things faster, saves time, energy and resources.But it's also controlling your Instagram account, and therefore how you think. It's slowly entering our life and shaping the way we live, good and bad.In the race to be number one, United States and China are doing everything in their power to build, use and spread artificial intelligence.Economic growth matters but not more than national security.So should the world regulate AI?Well, the sensible thing to do is: win the race without building something we cannot control.Independent safety testing and international coordination on the most dangerous capabilities is definitely needed.But there is another side to this debate.Whistleblower and former Anthropic researcher Jacob Coxon’s most extreme predictions are still predictions. He says AI could kill humans by the end of this decade, but there is no scientific consensus on exactly when, or even whether, superintelligent AI will kill humans.So, President Donald Trump is absolutely wrong to dismiss the risk associated with artificial intelligence. But Coxon is wrong too, if his warning is treated as proof of a catastrophe. The rational position is neither denial nor hysteria.It's to know when to stop. But humans rarely know how to do that.If the people building the most powerful technology on Earth admit they do not yet know how to guarantee its control, the responsible response is not to panic. It is to put guardrails in place before we discover too late, why we needed them in the first place. And if not the West, let's start with the Global South putting strict rules in place.&nbsp;

Trump has dismissed AI safety concerns as a hoax, but tech leaders warn of risks. Should the world impose guardrails before AI becomes uncontrollable?

Donald Trump says AI safety concerns are a hoax. Sam Altman, Elon Musk and Dario Amodei say AI concerns are real, and regulation is needed. The real issue is bigger than any of these men. Have we humans created a Frankenstein's monster in artificial intelligence? Not entirely. It's helping move things faster, saves time, energy and resources. But it's also controlling your Instagram account, and therefore how you think. It's slowly entering our life and shaping the way we live, good and bad. In the race to be number one, United States and China are doing everything in their power to build, use and spread artificial intelligence. Economic growth matters but not more than national security. So should the world regulate AI? Well, the sensible thing to do is: win the race without building something we cannot control. Independent safety testing and international coordination on the most dangerous capabilities is definitely needed. But there is another side to this debate. Whistleblower and former Anthropic researcher Jacob Coxon’s most extreme predictions are still predictions. He says AI could kill humans by the end of this decade, but there is no scientific consensus on exactly when, or even whether, superintelligent AI will kill humans. So, President Donald Trump is absolutely wrong to dismiss the risk associated with artificial intelligence. But Coxon is wrong too, if his warning is treated as proof of a catastrophe. The rational position is neither denial nor hysteria. It's to know when to stop. But humans rarely know how to do that. If the people building the most powerful technology on Earth admit they do not yet know how to guarantee its control, the responsible response is not to panic. It is to put guardrails in place before we discover too late, why we needed them in the first place. And if not the West, let's start with the Global South putting strict rules in place.

Trump has dismissed AI safety concerns as a hoax, but tech leaders warn of risks. Should the world impose guardrails before AI becomes uncontrollable?

Trump Calls AI Security Concerns A 'Hoax' | Verdict

For the British, who ruled the world for centuries and had a divide-and-rule policy, breaking up countries is not unusual.Except this time it's theirs.The leaders of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are meeting to sign a deal which would begin the break-up of the United Kingdom.So is the sun setting on the British Empire once again?Well, for centuries, Britain was built around the assumption that London was the centre, while Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland were parts of one political union. But this was always questioned. And now, it's been done openly.Even though each of the countries has its own political identities, the constitution still centres power in London.Let me give you an example: Scotland joined England in 1707, Ireland joined Great Britain in 1801.Between 1916 and 1922, the Irish War of Independence led most of Ireland to leave the UK, except Northern Ireland.Another example: in 2014, when a referendum on Scotland's independence was held, 55% of Scottish citizens voted 'yes'. Then, during Brexit, Scotland wanted to remain in the EU, but the UK wanted to exit, and so it happened.When US President Donald Trump recently said that he would support Northern Ireland breaking away from the UK, Prime Minister Andy Burnham wouldn't have known that he would have to talk about holding a border referendum. We'll have to see how that goes.Britain was once an extraordinary political project: England + Wales + Scotland + Ireland was equal to one United Kingdom. However, the British state was never created as a neat and clean federation of four equal nations. It was built through conquest, dynastic politics, parliamentary legislation and political compromise.All four countries have different priorities and concerns. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland now have elected institutions of their own, while Westminster retains the legal authority. The UK has a deliberately asymmetric constitution: different nations have different powers. But that's where all the tension begins.So would it be better if the UK divides? Well, that's for the UK to decide. But one thing is for sure: the United Kingdom might not be breaking up tonight, but the United Kingdom of yesterday is certainly gone.

Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are pushing for greater self-determination, raising questions over the future of the United Kingdom and its union.

For the British, who ruled the world for centuries and had a divide-and-rule policy, breaking up countries is not unusual. Except this time it's theirs. The leaders of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are meeting to sign a deal which would begin the break-up of the United Kingdom. So is the sun setting on the British Empire once again? Well, for centuries, Britain was built around the assumption that London was the centre, while Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland were parts of one political union. But this was always questioned. And now, it's been done openly. Even though each of the countries has its own political identities, the constitution still centres power in London. Let me give you an example: Scotland joined England in 1707, Ireland joined Great Britain in 1801. Between 1916 and 1922, the Irish War of Independence led most of Ireland to leave the UK, except Northern Ireland. Another example: in 2014, when a referendum on Scotland's independence was held, 55% of Scottish citizens voted 'yes'. Then, during Brexit, Scotland wanted to remain in the EU, but the UK wanted to exit, and so it happened. When US President Donald Trump recently said that he would support Northern Ireland breaking away from the UK, Prime Minister Andy Burnham wouldn't have known that he would have to talk about holding a border referendum. We'll have to see how that goes. Britain was once an extraordinary political project: England + Wales + Scotland + Ireland was equal to one United Kingdom. However, the British state was never created as a neat and clean federation of four equal nations. It was built through conquest, dynastic politics, parliamentary legislation and political compromise. All four countries have different priorities and concerns. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland now have elected institutions of their own, while Westminster retains the legal authority. The UK has a deliberately asymmetric constitution: different nations have different powers. But that's where all the tension begins. So would it be better if the UK divides? Well, that's for the UK to decide. But one thing is for sure: the United Kingdom might not be breaking up tonight, but the United Kingdom of yesterday is certainly gone.

Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are pushing for greater self-determination, raising questions over the future of the United Kingdom and its union.

Verdict | Leaders of Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland meet to sign deal

The very fabric of the United Kingdom is under unprecedented strain.For the first time in history, pro-independence parties hold the reins of power in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.They are now joining forces to demand an end to what we know as the United Kingdom.In a rare and historic summit at the Welsh capital of Cardiff, leaders from the Scottish National Party, Plaid Cymru, and Sinn Féin signed a joint agreement, declaring their absolute right to self-determination.The leaders issued a blunt warning to the UK Parliament, declaring in the memorandum that Westminster's time is coming to an end.All three parties now share a common goal: to break away from the United Kingdom and secure their future within the European Union.The Cardiff Pact pledges to strengthen cooperation between their governments to force constitutional change.The political landscape has shifted dramatically following Labour's recent election rout in Wales, leaving pro-independence forces in charge across all three devolved nations.Scottish First Minister John Swinney even claimed that UK Prime Minister Burnham will go down in history as the final prime minister of the United Kingdom.The independence movement is catching international attention.Just two days before this summit, Donald Trump weighed in during a visit to Dublin, declaring he would love to see a united Ireland.To understand the magnitude of this moment, you have to look at just how long this union has stood.The United Kingdom was forged over centuries of conflict and consolidation.Wales was officially united with England in 1536.Scotland followed in 1707, giving birth to Great Britain under Queen Anne.Ireland was officially brought into the fold in 1801, but the union was short-lived.Following the Easter Uprising of 1916 and a brutal war of independence, the southern counties broke away in the 1920s to form an independent Ireland, leaving only the six counties of Northern Ireland in the UK.For decades, the current borders seemed set in stone.But in the late 1990s, successful referendums led to devolution.This granted Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland their own parliaments and assemblies.Those bodies have grown in power over the last 25 years.The very democratic institutions established to keep the nations united are serving as the launchpad to dismantle the UK entirely.While the three parties differ on exactly how and when they will break away, their message is unified:Constitutional change is coming, and they believe the people will decide their own future.

Pro-independence parties in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have united in Cardiff, demanding self-determination and constitutional change across the UK.

The very fabric of the United Kingdom is under unprecedented strain. For the first time in history, pro-independence parties hold the reins of power in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. They are now joining forces to demand an end to what we know as the United Kingdom. In a rare and historic summit at the Welsh capital of Cardiff, leaders from the Scottish National Party, Plaid Cymru, and Sinn Féin signed a joint agreement, declaring their absolute right to self-determination. The leaders issued a blunt warning to the UK Parliament, declaring in the memorandum that Westminster's time is coming to an end. All three parties now share a common goal: to break away from the United Kingdom and secure their future within the European Union. The Cardiff Pact pledges to strengthen cooperation between their governments to force constitutional change. The political landscape has shifted dramatically following Labour's recent election rout in Wales, leaving pro-independence forces in charge across all three devolved nations. Scottish First Minister John Swinney even claimed that UK Prime Minister Burnham will go down in history as the final prime minister of the United Kingdom. The independence movement is catching international attention. Just two days before this summit, Donald Trump weighed in during a visit to Dublin, declaring he would love to see a united Ireland. To understand the magnitude of this moment, you have to look at just how long this union has stood. The United Kingdom was forged over centuries of conflict and consolidation. Wales was officially united with England in 1536. Scotland followed in 1707, giving birth to Great Britain under Queen Anne. Ireland was officially brought into the fold in 1801, but the union was short-lived. Following the Easter Uprising of 1916 and a brutal war of independence, the southern counties broke away in the 1920s to form an independent Ireland, leaving only the six counties of Northern Ireland in the UK. For decades, the current borders seemed set in stone. But in the late 1990s, successful referendums led to devolution. This granted Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland their own parliaments and assemblies. Those bodies have grown in power over the last 25 years. The very democratic institutions established to keep the nations united are serving as the launchpad to dismantle the UK entirely. While the three parties differ on exactly how and when they will break away, their message is unified: Constitutional change is coming, and they believe the people will decide their own future.

Pro-independence parties in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have united in Cardiff, demanding self-determination and constitutional change across the UK.

Scotland, Wales & Northern Ireland push for exit from UK | Race To Power

Calls for reforming and restructuring the United Nations Security Council are growing, with developing countries demanding greater representation and a stronger voice in global decision-making. 

UNSC reform, restructuring and ensuring representation of developing countries

Iran says the Houthis make their own decisions based on their interests, highlighting the complex relationship between Tehran and the Houthi movement in Yemen. 

Iran: Houthis make their decisions based on their own interests

Africa has heard the compliments before.The continent of the future. The world's youngest continent. A mineral powerhouse. The next great consumer market. An indispensable voice of the Global South.All true.But recognition without influence is merely applause.The New Delhi Declaration adopted at the BRICS Summit makes a powerful case for a more representative global order and greater participation by developing economies, particularly those from Africa, Asia and Latin America.That is welcome.But Africa should ask an uncomfortable question: where is its power in this emerging order?Africa has 54 countries and more than 1.5 billion people, yet only South Africa, Egypt and Ethiopia are full members of BRICS. Nigeria and Uganda are partner countries.That is progress. It is not proportional power.And simply stuffing BRICS with dozens more members is not necessarily the solution either.Expansion without coordination risks creating another enormous international talking shop — impressive family photographs, lengthy declarations and very little ability to act.Africa therefore needs something more important than seats: a strategy.This is where the African Union should become central.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WIONAtBRICS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIONAtBRICS</a> | 54 African countries. Only THREE are full BRICS members. Africa doesn&#39;t need applause for its &quot;potential.&quot; It needs power proportional to it. India deserves credit for opening the door. But Africa must decide how it walks through it.<a href="https://x.com/eriknjoka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@eriknjoka</a> brings more on… <a href="https://t.co/xmwS1LAkgK">pic.twitter.com/xmwS1LAkgK</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2099168609893576871?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Instead of African countries approaching emerging blocs primarily through individual national interests, the continent needs greater coordination around what it wants from them: infrastructure financing, industrialisation, technology transfer, energy security, agricultural transformation, value addition and reform of global financial institutions.Africa possesses many of the resources the emerging world wants. It should negotiate accordingly.India deserves recognition here.New Delhi has repeatedly pushed greater representation of the Global South, backed the African Union's elevation within the G20 and used its 2026 BRICS chairship to again place developing economies prominently on the agenda.That matters.India and Africa also have something important in common: neither wants the international system permanently dictated by institutions reflecting yesterday's balance of power.But partnership cannot mean replacing dependence on one centre of global power with dependence on another.Africa should neither become an appendage of the West nor a bargaining chip for the East.It should become a pole of power itself.That means BRICS should not simply ask how many more African countries it can accommodate.Africa should ask what membership actually delivers.More African flags around the BRICS table will mean little if African economies continue exporting raw minerals only to import the finished products; if infrastructure gaps persist; if Africans remain underrepresented where global financial and security decisions are made; and if the continent's enormous population translates into market size but not negotiating strength.The New Delhi Declaration talks about giving the Global South a greater voice.Good.Now Africa must use it.Because the continent does not need another invitation to somebody else's table.It needs the leverage to help decide what is served.

New Delhi has repeatedly pushed greater representation of the Global South, backed the African Union's elevation within the G20 and used its 2026 BRICS chairship to again place developing economies prominently on the agenda.

Africa has heard the compliments before. The continent of the future. The world's youngest continent. A mineral powerhouse. The next great consumer market. An indispensable voice of the Global South. All true. But recognition without influence is merely applause. The New Delhi Declaration adopted at the BRICS Summit makes a powerful case for a more representative global order and greater participation by developing economies, particularly those from Africa, Asia and Latin America. That is welcome. But Africa should ask an uncomfortable question: where is its power in this emerging order? Africa has 54 countries and more than 1.5 billion people, yet only South Africa, Egypt and Ethiopia are full members of BRICS. Nigeria and Uganda are partner countries. That is progress. It is not proportional power. And simply stuffing BRICS with dozens more members is not necessarily the solution either. Expansion without coordination risks creating another enormous international talking shop — impressive family photographs, lengthy declarations and very little ability to act. Africa therefore needs something more important than seats: a strategy. This is where the African Union should become central.

New Delhi has repeatedly pushed greater representation of the Global South, backed the African Union's elevation within the G20 and used its 2026 BRICS chairship to again place developing economies prominently on the agenda.

The Verdict | Africa is too big to remain a guest at the BRICS table

As India hosts the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, over 30 countries—including NATO member Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Algeria, and Vietnam—are actively seeking full membership or formal partner status within the expanding 11-member bloc. India faces a delicate diplomatic balancing act: managing internal consensus among existing members while resisting aggressive pushback from China and Russia to rapidly anti-Westernize the group, ensuring BRICS remains an effective multilateral driver for the Global South rather than a diluted geopolitical bloc.  

BRICS Summit 2026: India’s strategic test as Pakistan, Turkey, and global south push to join BRICS

Chinese President Xi Jinping heads to India for BRICS summit on Saturday that could mark the biggest step in a cautious thaw after years of hostility between the two countries. Xi's visit for the September 12-13 BRICS summit would be his first trip to India since October 2019, and follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi's August 2025 visit to China. The nuclear-armed Asian giants have been been slowly improving ties since a deadly 2020 border clash. Flights, some visas and high-level contacts have gradually resumed. Can the Modi-Xi meeting help improve ties?


PM Modi's meeting with Xi Jinping to test India-China reset after border tensions

Russian President Vladimir Putin touched down in New Delhi and went straight into bilateral talks with PM Modi ahead of the 18th BRICS Summit. Trade, energy, and defence topped the agenda, with BrahMos missile upgrades, S-400 deliveries and Su-57 jets all reportedly on the table. Putin arrived with a high-level delegation, and the two leaders are expected to review decades of strategic partnership before world leaders gather at Bharat Mandapam this weekend.


BRICS Summit 2026: PM Modi, President Putin hold bilateral talks ahead of BRICS summit

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