Reports from Yemen say Saudi forces carried out multiple airstrikes targeting areas controlled by the Houthi movement, including the capital, Sanaa, and surrounding districts. Media outlets affiliated with the Houthis also reported approximately 20 strikes in the coastal city of Mocha. According to the Houthi-linked broadcaster Al-Masirah, one strike hit a residential building in Sanaa, killing at least three people and injuring several others. Another reported attack targeted a cement factory in Sanaa governorate, with casualties also reported. These accounts have not been independently verified. The developments followed an announcement by the Saudi-led military coalition that its forces had intercepted two missiles allegedly launched by the Houthis toward the western Saudi cities of Taif and Yanbu. Saudi authorities had also issued public safety warnings for several regions, including Mecca and Jeddah, amid concerns about potential attacks. Saudi Arabia led a military coalition that intervened in Yemen's conflict in 2015. The prolonged war has caused widespread destruction, displaced communities and contributed to one of the world's most severe humanitarian emergencies. Although a ceasefire arrangement in 2022 reduced fighting for a period, renewed hostilities have reportedly intensified since July amid broader regional conflict. The latest reports highlight the risk of further escalation and the continuing threat to civilians across Yemen and neighbouring areas.
Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan are reportedly seeking to strengthen their military cooperation as tensions surrounding Yemen’s Houthi movement raise concerns about regional security. The reported Mecca Defence Pact could establish a framework for closer coordination, intelligence-sharing and potential military assistance if any participating country faces a serious security threat. The development comes amid renewed fighting in Yemen, where forces aligned with the internationally recognised government are attempting to regain strategic territories held by the Houthis. The conflict has increased concerns about the security of Saudi Arabia and the stability of important maritime routes, particularly the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and serves as a vital corridor for international trade. The Houthis have reportedly claimed attacks against important Saudi facilities, including aviation and energy infrastructure. However, the details and impact of these alleged attacks require independent verification. Any escalation could threaten regional stability, disrupt commercial shipping and increase pressure on energy markets. Closer cooperation among Riyadh, Ankara and Islamabad could strengthen their collective security capabilities and influence the regional balance of power. Nevertheless, the extent of their commitments, the possibility of deploying troops and the agreement’s operational arrangements depend on its confirmed terms and official decisions. The reported initiative highlights growing concerns over Yemen’s conflict and its wider implications for the Middle East. Whether the partnership develops into a fully operational defence framework will depend on military coordination, political commitments and efforts to prevent further escalation.
US President Donald Trump has expressed doubt that China and Russia are providing assistance to Iran, arguing that both countries would face significant risks if they became involved in supporting Tehran. Speaking through his Truth Social account on Monday, Trump suggested that any such support, if it existed, would be minimal. He also maintained that Washington would quickly detect any significant involvement by Moscow or Beijing. Saudi Arabia Faces Security Concerns After Missile Attacks Trump also criticised Houthi forces over a series of attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, including incidents involving major airports in Riyadh and Dammam, according to Al Jazeera. Saudi authorities have extended the suspension of operations at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh until October 17. Officials said the extended closure would allow aviation authorities to assess the safety of airport facilities following repeated security threats. Saudi forces reported intercepting a ballistic missile directed towards Riyadh on Monday night. The Saudi-led coalition said the missile had been destroyed, while Civil Defence later announced that the immediate threat to the capital had passed. Houthi representatives claimed responsibility for targeting the airport and described the operation as accurate. Flight Disruptions Continue Across Saudi Arabia Aviation restrictions have caused widespread disruption to air travel. A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) indicated that Riyadh airport would remain closed through October 17 while safety inspections continued. Data from aviation analytics company Cirium showed that 486 of the 1,048 flights scheduled to depart Saudi Arabia on Monday were cancelled. Another 271 cancellations had already been recorded for Tuesday. Gulf Air also suspended its Riyadh services through October 17. The attacks have also affected foreign nationals. India's embassy in Riyadh confirmed that Indian citizen Mohammed Yousuf Ali died following an airport attack on October 10. Indian Ambassador Vipul attended the funeral in Riyadh after the family decided to hold the ceremony there. The embassy further reported that three injured Indian nationals remained in intensive care, while two additional people had also been admitted to intensive care. Other Major Developments in the Middle East Trump's position on Iran: Trump said the US midterm elections would not alter his administration's approach to Iran. He also predicted that the conflict would end soon and that oil prices would fall sharply afterward. Oil market movements: Crude prices declined on Tuesday after rising by nearly $2 during the previous session. Traders continued to assess the risk of supply interruptions linked to regional attacks alongside the possibility of higher Russian diesel exports. Incident near the Strait of Hormuz: The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that a tanker departing the Strait of Hormuz was struck by an unidentified projectile on Monday. Iranian military adviser Yahya Rahim Safavi said Tehran wanted to regulate and restrict maritime traffic through the strategic waterway rather than shut it completely. Iran considers Washington's proposal: Iran is examining the latest US proposal concerning the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, according to a spokesperson for its foreign ministry. Messages are being exchanged through intermediaries, including Qatar and Pakistan. Warning over digital infrastructure: Mohsen Rezaei, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, warned that regional data cables, data centres and artificial intelligence facilities could face risks if hostilities resume, Iranian state media reported.
International gold prices recorded a moderate increase on October 19, 2026, reaching approximately $4,175.30 per troy ounce, based on the supplied market figures. The precious metal gained $11.20, or 0.27%, during the session, reflecting a positive movement in the global bullion market. The reported price placed 24-karat gold at around $134.24 per gram, while 22-karat gold was valued at approximately $123.06 per gram. Actual buying prices may vary depending on purity, dealer premiums and other charges. Gold prices are influenced by global economic conditions, US dollar movements, interest-rate expectations and geopolitical uncertainty. Investors often consider gold a store of value during uncertain periods, although market fluctuations can also lead to price declines. In Bangladesh, international gold prices remain an important reference for jewellery buyers. However, domestic rates depend on exchange rates, supply conditions and official announcements from the Bangladesh Jewellers Association (BAJUS). Consumers should check the latest local rates and applicable making charges before purchasing gold. Market participants will continue to monitor economic developments and investor demand to determine the precious metal's next direction.
Cristiano Ronaldo found the net as Al-Nassr defeated Uzbekistan’s Neftchi Fergana 3-1 in an AFC Champions League fixture on Monday. The match in Riyadh began an hour later than scheduled following a security alert linked to the ongoing regional conflict. Saudi Arabia’s Civil Defence issued a warning around 15 minutes before the planned kick-off, prompting a delay while safety concerns were addressed. The incident came amid missile threats targeting the Saudi capital. Later that night, explosions were reported in Riyadh, and a Saudi-led military coalition announced that its forces had intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile. The escalating tensions have also raised questions about upcoming international sporting events, including Formula 1 races scheduled in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. After play eventually began, Al-Nassr took the lead through Angelo in the 33rd minute. Ronaldo then extended the advantage before the interval, putting the home side in a strong position. Neftchi Fergana managed to reduce the deficit after the break but suffered a major setback when one of their players was sent off in the 65th minute. An own goal 13 minutes later secured Al-Nassr’s 3-1 victory and their first win in Group B. Ronaldo had also scored on Friday during his return to club action after leaving Portugal’s national team camp midway through the international break. Reports linked his departure to frustration over limited playing opportunities.
Bangladesh is exploring modern agricultural methods, scientific research and improved food distribution to strengthen food security and make nutritious food more accessible to its population. The issue gained attention during World Food Day 2026, observed on October 16 under the theme “Innovate Today. Nourish Tomorrow.” A national seminar in Dhaka brought together government officials, agricultural researchers, development partners and other stakeholders to discuss ways to improve the country's food system. One major challenge is ensuring that food reaches consumers efficiently after harvest. Although Bangladesh produces substantial quantities of rice, fish, vegetables and fruits, inadequate storage, transportation difficulties and food losses can reduce the benefits of agricultural production. Digital technology could also help improve agricultural market management. Better production data and supply monitoring may help farmers make informed decisions, reduce waste and respond more effectively to changing market demand. Climate change presents another challenge. Floods and other extreme weather events can damage crops, disrupt livelihoods and make food less affordable. Climate-resilient crop varieties, timely weather information and improved farming practices could help farmers prepare for these risks. However, innovation alone will not solve every problem. Small-scale farmers need access to financing, modern equipment, agricultural advice and reliable markets. Better food preservation, stronger safety standards and public awareness of nutrition are also important parts of the solution. Food affordability remains a serious concern for many households. High living costs and climate-related disruptions can limit access to nutritious meals, particularly for vulnerable communities. Agricultural experts and development partners have emphasized the importance of turning research into practical solutions that benefit farmers and consumers. Better coordination among government agencies, scientists, businesses and rural communities could help reduce food losses, improve productivity and strengthen access to nutritious diets. For Bangladesh, the long-term challenge is not simply producing more food. It is building a resilient and efficient food system that can withstand economic and climate-related pressures while keeping safe, nutritious food within reach of ordinary households.
The global luxury fashion industry is facing renewed pressure as weaker consumer demand in China affects the performance of leading fashion brands. LVMH, the parent company of Louis Vuitton and several other luxury labels, reported a 5% decline in organic sales in its fashion and leather goods division for the latest quarter. The results fell short of market expectations, raising further concerns about the industry's recovery. China has long been a major market for luxury goods. However, slower economic growth, weakness in the property sector and cautious consumer spending have affected demand for high-end clothing, handbags and accessories. The slowdown has also created uncertainty for other major luxury groups, including Hermès and Kering, as investors assess the outlook for the global market. Industry analysts believe a sustained recovery may take time, with brands likely to focus on long-term strategies rather than relying on immediate price reductions. The latest results highlight the challenges facing luxury fashion houses as they navigate changing consumer behaviour and an increasingly uncertain global economy
Excessive working hours are becoming a major global health concern, according to research by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Labour Organization (ILO). A joint study estimated that prolonged working hours were associated with approximately 745,000 deaths from stroke and ischemic heart disease worldwide in 2016. The research found that people working 55 hours or more per week faced a 35% higher risk of stroke and a 17% higher risk of dying from ischemic heart disease compared with those working 35–40 hours weekly. Experts warn that prolonged work schedules, inadequate sleep and persistent stress can negatively affect workers' health. The growth of remote work may also blur the boundaries between professional and personal life for some employees. International health authorities emphasize the importance of reasonable working hours, sufficient rest and healthier workplace policies to reduce these risks. The findings highlight the need for employers and governments to prioritize worker well-being alongside productivity.
