Iran's carpet industry unravelling under US sanctions

Canada's fiscal watchdog has warned that the country's budget deficit is set to widen, exceeding 2% of the economy in the near term. This projection comes amid weak economic growth and new spending measures proposed by Prime Minister Mark Carney aimed at restructuring the economy. The implications of these deficits could affect public services and economic stability, making it a critical issue for Canadians.

Donald Trump recently claimed that Russia's economy is on the verge of collapse, highlighting the challenges posed by rising VAT and fuel shortages as the country continues its military efforts in Ukraine. This statement marks a significant shift in Trump's rhetoric, suggesting that he believes Ukraine has a real opportunity to reclaim its territory. The implications of this assertion are crucial, as they could influence international perceptions and responses to the ongoing conflict.

As international leaders grapple with the challenges posed by the rise of the populist right, there's a growing conversation about the lessons that can be learned. In particular, UK Labour leader Keir Starmer is looking to these global examples to inform his approach to economic and immigration issues. Understanding how others are tackling similar challenges could provide valuable insights for Starmer as he seeks to strengthen his party's position and appeal to a broader electorate.

Israel's recent characterization of Hamas as a 'proxy' of Iran raises important questions about the dynamics of regional power and influence. This dismissal suggests a shift in how Israel views its adversaries and the broader implications for Middle Eastern geopolitics. Understanding this perspective is crucial as it may affect future conflicts and alliances in the region.

Aidarous al-Zubaidi, the president of Yemen's Southern Transitional Council, has emphasized the need for a two-state solution in Yemen, stating that the Iran-backed Houthis cannot be removed from power through military means. Speaking at the UN General Assembly, he highlighted the current political stalemate and the importance of finding a stable resolution for the country. This perspective is crucial as it reflects the ongoing challenges in Yemen's conflict and the need for diplomatic efforts to achieve lasting peace.

Militaries globally are increasingly interested in replicating Iran's Shahed drone technology, which offers a low-cost and straightforward method to challenge enemy air defenses. This trend highlights a shift in military strategies, as nations look for innovative ways to enhance their defense capabilities without incurring significant expenses. The implications of this development could reshape aerial combat dynamics and influence international military relations.

Donald Trump's recent speech at the United Nations General Assembly has sparked discussions on various critical issues, including wars, climate change, and the economy. Jillian Wolf delves into the facts behind Trump's claims, providing clarity on the statements made. This matters because understanding the accuracy of such high-profile speeches can influence public opinion and policy decisions.

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian has firmly rejected the possibility of direct nuclear talks with President Trump, following a strong condemnation of U.S. and Israeli military actions during a speech at the U.N. This stance highlights the ongoing tensions between Iran and the West, particularly in light of recent attacks, and underscores the challenges in diplomatic relations as both sides remain entrenched in their positions.

The documentary 'Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk' pays tribute to Palestinian photojournalist Fatma Hassona, who bravely documented the struggles of her people amidst the devastation in Gaza. Directed by exiled Iranian filmmaker Sepideh Farsi, this poignant film opens in French cinemas on Wednesday, highlighting the importance of storytelling in the face of adversity. It matters because it sheds light on the human experience behind the headlines, reminding us of the resilience of those affected by conflict.

France's President Emmanuel Macron has issued a stark warning to Iran, stating that the country has only hours to present a clear plan for allowing UN weapons inspectors back in and to disclose its stockpile of highly enriched uranium. This ultimatum comes after a meeting with Iranian counterpart Masoud Pezeshkian, highlighting the urgency of the situation. If Iran fails to comply, it faces the reinstatement of severe UN sanctions, which could have significant implications for its economy and international relations. This situation is critical as it underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding nuclear proliferation and the need for transparency.

Boris Johnson has expressed serious concerns about Nigel Farage's views on Russia, labeling them as 'extremely dangerous.' He also criticized Reform UK, the party led by Farage, as a potential threat to national security. This statement highlights the growing tensions in UK politics regarding foreign policy and national security, especially as Reform UK intensifies its criticism of the current government. Johnson's remarks are significant as they reflect a broader debate about the direction of UK political discourse and the implications for national safety.

In a recent interview with France 24, French President Emmanuel Macron discussed the urgent situation regarding Iran's nuclear program, stating that the Iranian president has 'hours left' to take action to avoid potential sanctions. This statement highlights the critical nature of diplomatic negotiations and the international community's concerns about nuclear proliferation, emphasizing the importance of timely decisions in global politics.

In a significant diplomatic move, President Trump has urged Turkey to halt its purchases of Russian oil, hinting at a potential lifting of sanctions. This comes as Turkish President Erdogan seeks a deal on F-35 jets, which could strengthen US-Turkey relations. The implications of this dialogue are crucial, as it may pave the way for improved cooperation between the two nations and address ongoing tensions in the region.

Russia has issued a stark warning about the potential dangers of an AI arms race, emphasizing that without proper safeguards, this technological rivalry could pose a serious threat to humanity's existence. Deputy UN envoy Dmitry Polyansky highlighted the urgent need for international cooperation to prevent such a scenario, making it clear that the stakes are incredibly high. This issue matters because as AI technology rapidly advances, the risk of misuse increases, and global stability could be at risk if nations do not work together to establish regulations.

President Trump has once again pointed fingers at the radical left for the rise in political violence, following a shooting incident at an immigration facility that left three detainees injured. This statement comes amidst growing tensions and a letter from dozens of House Democrats urging the recognition of Palestinian statehood. The situation highlights the increasing polarization in U.S. politics and raises concerns about the safety of individuals in politically charged environments.

The Open Society Foundations, backed by George Soros, has publicly condemned the Trump administration for what it describes as politically motivated attacks on civil society. This response comes after reports that the Justice Department is pushing for investigations into the organization, highlighting the ongoing tensions between the administration and its critics. This situation is significant as it raises concerns about the implications for free speech and the role of philanthropic organizations in political discourse.

The UN has clarified that the recent technical issues faced by former President Trump, including a malfunctioning escalator and a faulty teleprompter, were actually due to his team's management. This revelation is significant as it shifts the blame away from external factors and highlights the importance of proper event coordination. Trump's acknowledgment of the situation on Truth Social adds another layer to the ongoing discussions about his public appearances.

Tonight's Europa League matches feature Aston Villa facing Bologna and Rangers taking on Genk, with kick-offs at 8pm BST. Villa's coach, Unai Emery, shared that goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is injured, but he sees this as a chance for Donyell Malen to shine. The team's strong home performance adds to the excitement of the match. These games are crucial for the clubs as they aim to secure their positions in the tournament, making it a significant night for fans and players alike.