Author: Urooba Jamal
In the serene country of Oman, a rare act of violence occurred last week near the capital of Muscat, shaking a peaceful nation known for its religious tolerance and stability. Gunmen attacked the Imam Ali Mosque during a major religious event, claiming the lives of five people and injuring many others. Although ISIL claimed responsibility for the attack, experts are unsure if the group was actually involved. The timing of the attack during the holy time of Ashura for Shia Muslims suggests a deliberate attempt to stoke sectarian tensions and create chaos in a traditionally harmonious society. Sowing discord to…
While many countries are moving towards a shorter work week, Greece is taking a different approach by introducing a new six-day work schedule under Law 5053/2023 to boost the economy after years of financial crisis. What does the new law entail? The law allows employers in certain industries to require employees to work a sixth day in exchange for a 40 percent increase in their daily wage. This move aims to increase productivity and GDP. Why is Greece opting for longer working hours? Greece’s government believes the extended work week is necessary due to an ageing population and a shortage…
Gaza is facing a severe humanitarian crisis, with the United Nations (UN) human rights experts warning that famine has already taken hold in the Strip. The intentional starvation campaign by Israel has resulted in widespread hunger and malnutrition, pushing Gaza to the brink of catastrophe. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) defines famine as a state of extreme food scarcity, with specific criteria including high levels of hunger, malnourished children, and an increased death rate. While Gaza has not officially been declared a famine zone, the situation remains dire with a significant portion of the population facing acute food…
In the north of Gaza, two roads connect the city of Jabalia to the Jabalia refugee camp. As-Sikka Street, once a railway route that linked Gaza to various countries, runs parallel to the smaller Assalia Street, named after the Assalia family residing in the area. Recent Israeli attacks in Jabalia left 26 Assalia family members dead and six houses destroyed. Ibrahim Assalia, a UK-based media lecturer, recounts the horror of hearing the shelling over the phone with his family. After the attacks, surviving relatives are now fleeing, facing uncertainty and danger once again. Generations killed, memories destroyed Many victims were…