‘Amoral, evil’: vitriolic backlash builds against comics who played Riyadh festival

The Riyadh comedy festival has been criticized as a superficial attempt by the Saudi government to acquire genuine cultural expression, which it typically suppresses. This event highlights the ongoing struggle between the regime's desire for a modern image and its reluctance to embrace authentic grassroots culture. The implications of this disconnect are significant, as they reveal the challenges faced by artists in navigating a landscape that often prioritizes state-approved narratives over true artistic freedom.

The Riyadh comedy festival has been criticized as a superficial attempt by the Saudi government to acquire genuine cultural expression, which it typically suppresses. This event highlights the ongoing struggle between the regime's desire for a modern image and its reluctance to embrace authentic grassroots culture. The implications of this disconnect are significant, as they reveal the challenges faced by artists in navigating a landscape that often prioritizes state-approved narratives over true artistic freedom.

The football regulator has stated that it does not have the authority to block club owners based on human rights concerns. This clarification is significant as it highlights the limitations of regulatory bodies in addressing ethical issues within the sport, raising questions about accountability and governance in football.

The football regulator has stated that it does not have the authority to block club owners based on human rights concerns. This clarification is significant as it highlights the limitations of regulatory bodies in addressing ethical issues within the sport, raising questions about accountability and governance in football.

Cristiano Ronaldo has made history by becoming the first footballer to join the billionaire club, as reported by the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, which estimates his net worth at $1.4 billion. This milestone is significant not only for Ronaldo but also for the sport, showcasing the immense financial opportunities available to top athletes. His recent $400 million deal with Saudi club Al-Nassr has undoubtedly contributed to this achievement, highlighting the growing influence of football in global markets.

Cristiano Ronaldo has made history by becoming the first footballer to join the billionaire club, as reported by the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, which estimates his net worth at $1.4 billion. This milestone is significant not only for Ronaldo but also for the sport, showcasing the immense financial opportunities available to top athletes. His recent $400 million deal with Saudi club Al-Nassr has undoubtedly contributed to this achievement, highlighting the growing influence of football in global markets.

The article explores the troubling relationship between Saudi Arabia and Twitter, highlighting how the kingdom's investment has bolstered its influence in Silicon Valley while simultaneously enabling the suppression of dissent at home. This connection raises concerns about the implications for free speech and the role of social media in authoritarian regimes, especially as figures like Elon Musk take the helm of such platforms.

The article explores the troubling relationship between Saudi Arabia and Twitter, highlighting how the kingdom's investment has bolstered its influence in Silicon Valley while simultaneously enabling the suppression of dissent at home. This connection raises concerns about the implications for free speech and the role of social media in authoritarian regimes, especially as figures like Elon Musk take the helm of such platforms.

In an exciting start to the AFC World Cup qualifiers, Saudi Arabia triumphed over Indonesia with a close score of 3-2, showcasing their strong football prowess. Meanwhile, Qatar and Oman played to a goalless draw, highlighting the competitive nature of the tournament. These matches are crucial as teams vie for a spot in the prestigious World Cup, making every goal and point count.

In an exciting start to the AFC World Cup qualifiers, Saudi Arabia triumphed over Indonesia with a close score of 3-2, showcasing their strong football prowess. Meanwhile, Qatar and Oman played to a goalless draw, highlighting the competitive nature of the tournament. These matches are crucial as teams vie for a spot in the prestigious World Cup, making every goal and point count.

Cristiano Ronaldo has made history by becoming the first billionaire in football, a milestone that highlights his immense success both on and off the pitch. His wealth surged after signing a lucrative $400 million deal in Saudi Arabia, showcasing the growing financial power of football and the opportunities it presents for players. This achievement not only cements Ronaldo's legacy as one of the greatest athletes but also reflects the changing landscape of sports economics.

Cristiano Ronaldo has made history by becoming the first billionaire in football, a milestone that highlights his immense success both on and off the pitch. His wealth surged after signing a lucrative $400 million deal in Saudi Arabia, showcasing the growing financial power of football and the opportunities it presents for players. This achievement not only cements Ronaldo's legacy as one of the greatest athletes but also reflects the changing landscape of sports economics.

In a significant legal development, a French court has increased the jail term of the only man who appealed his conviction for the rape of Gisèle Pelicot by an additional year. This decision underscores the seriousness with which the judicial system treats sexual violence and the importance of holding offenders accountable. It also highlights the ongoing challenges faced by survivors in seeking justice.

In a significant development, US President Donald Trump announced that Israel and Hamas have reached an agreement on the first phase of a ceasefire plan, which includes a pause in fighting and the potential release of hostages. This news is crucial as it marks a step towards de-escalating the ongoing conflict in Gaza, offering hope for peace and stability in the region.

In a chilling court revelation, Walid Saadaoui was accused of plotting a mass attack in Manchester, inspired by the infamous Paris attacker. This case highlights the ongoing threat of terrorism and the disturbing influence that past attacks can have on individuals, raising concerns about public safety and the effectiveness of counter-terrorism measures.

House Speaker Mike Johnson has accused Democrats of engaging in 'political theater' as the government shutdown stretches into its ninth day. This accusation comes amid rising tensions, with Donald Trump calling for the imprisonment of Chicago's Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker. Meanwhile, President Biden has been expressing gratitude to his allies on social media for their support regarding his diplomatic efforts in Gaza. This situation highlights the ongoing political strife and the challenges facing the government as it grapples with critical issues.

In a show of solidarity, thousands of students gathered in Islamabad, Pakistan, to celebrate the recent ceasefire agreement in Gaza. This rally highlights the growing concern and support for the situation in Gaza, reflecting a strong sense of community and activism among the youth. Such events are crucial as they not only raise awareness but also foster a sense of hope for peace in the region.

Carolyn Rogers from the Bank of Canada has called for increased competition in Canada's banking sector, which she describes as an oligopoly. This shift could potentially address the country's ongoing productivity issues, making it a significant topic for both consumers and policymakers. By fostering a more competitive environment, Canadians might benefit from better services and rates, ultimately boosting the economy.