During the reign of Queen Victoria, the British Empire profited heavily from exporting opium from colonial India to China, fuelling addiction and sparking the First Opium War after Chinese official Lin Zexu destroyed large shipments. The episode reveals a stark contradiction between Victorian moral ideals and an empire deeply reliant on the global narcotics trade.
Thousands of UAE residents stranded abroad due to travel disruptions amid Iran vs US-Israel war, face salary and job uncertainty. UAE labour law offers protections, with employers expected to assess situations reasonably. Communication and documentation are crucial for employees, who may be eligible for remote work or paid/unpaid leave. Termination is not automatic for justified […]
Iran’s president Masoud Pezeshkian clarified his remarks on regional attacks, stating they were misinterpreted by “the enemy” seeking division. He emphasized good neighborly relations but acknowledged retaliation is necessary. This clarification followed an apology to Gulf nations affected by strikes, which drew domestic criticism and prompted US president Trump to claim Iran showed weakness.
China’s foreign minister Wang Yi cautioned against externally driven regime change in Iran, stating such efforts would lack public backing and escalate regional instability. He emphasized respecting Iran’s sovereignty and urged an immediate end to hostilities, advocating for diplomatic solutions and independent regional self-determination. Beijing is ready to help restore order and peace.
Over 52,000 Indian citizens safely returned from the Gulf region between March 1-7, 2026, following recent disruptions. Commercial and rescue flights facilitated the repatriation, with Indian carriers transporting 32,107 passengers. The government remains vigilant, maintaining dedicated helplines for ongoing diaspora welfare.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced near-total dominance over Iranian airspace following coordinated strikes with the US, dubbed ‘Operation Rising Lion.’ He stated the campaign, supported by former President Trump, aimed to neutralize an immediate threat from Iran’s nuclear ambitions and missile program, emphasizing a strategic shift in the region post-October 7th.
