Saudi Press

Saudi Arabia and the world
Tuesday, Nov 18, 2025

Global Tensions Rise as Biden Navigates Middle East Strife, Economic Alliances, and Humanitarian Crises

Biden downplays full-scale war risk amid Israel-Hezbollah clashes, while Taliban seeks global intelligence cooperation against IS-K. Saudi-Canadian economic ties strengthen with new business council office in Toronto and key sector partnerships.
In the wake of rising tensions in the Middle East, President Biden has expressed doubt about the potential for an all-out war, even as Israel targets Hezbollah in Beirut following significant attacks from Tehran. Amidst global concerns, particularly with the surge in oil prices, Biden emphasizes the ongoing discussions around actions to prevent further conflict, including possible strikes on Iran's oil facilities in response to Hezbollah's rocket attacks on Israel.

Shifting focus to Afghanistan, the Taliban government is reaching out for international intelligence cooperation to counter the mounting threats from the Islamic State Khorasan (IS-K). This pursuit of collaboration, while crucial, is complicated by the Taliban's historical ties with groups like Al-Qaeda, raising questions about the implications of such partnerships despite the potential benefits in combating terrorism.

Transitioning to economic news, the Saudi-Canadian Business Council has opened a new office in Toronto, marking a significant step in strengthening economic ties between Saudi Arabia and Canada. This move aims to boost investment opportunities and forge partnerships, enhancing the business environment as trade between the two nations witnesses promising growth.

Additionally, a Saudi delegation's visit to Canada further cements this renewed economic relationship, resulting in new partnerships and a memorandum of understanding in key sectors such as entertainment and sports. The visit, highlighting a new era of cooperation after years of dormancy, underscores the importance of these international ties for mutual economic benefit.

Meanwhile, in Tunisia, President Kais Saied is poised for reelection amid controversy surrounding his consolidation of power and the country's ongoing economic challenges. Despite limited opposition due to governmental crackdowns, international observers continue to express concern over Tunisia's democratic trajectory, with calls for boycotts by local opposition groups.

Finally, in Lebanon, Sierra Leonean domestic workers, including Fatima Samuella Tholley and her cousin Mariatu Musa Tholley, find themselves in a dire predicament following the devastation caused by Israeli airstrikes. Their troubles are exacerbated by the restrictive "kafala" sponsorship system, leaving them stranded without essential documentation and support amidst the conflict.
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