An exhibition, calling for an end to executions in Iran, in Trafalgar Square on October 10, 2020 in London, England. The exhibition, held by Anglo-Iranian communities in the UK, marked the World Day against the Death Penalty. Getty Images
Qassem Suleimani, Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) Major General and commander of the Quds Force. A US strike killed the top Iranian commander and the deputy head of Iraq's PMU military force at Baghdad's airport early on January 3, 2019. AFP
A destroyed vehicle on fire following a US strike on January 3, 2020 on Baghdad international airport road in which top Iranian commander Qassem Suleimani was killed along with eight others, including the deputy head of Iraq's powerful PMU paramilitary force. AFP
Iranian people attend a funeral procession for Iranian Major-General Qassem Suleimani, head of the elite Quds Force, and Iraqi militia commander Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, in Tehran, Iran January 6, 2020. Reuters
Mourners attend a funeral ceremony for Iranian General Qassem Suleimani. The processions mark the first time Iran honoured a single man with a multi-city ceremony. Not even Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, who founded the Islamic Republic, received such a processional with his death in 1989. AP
Rockets launched from Iran against the US military base in Ein-al Asad in Iraq, on January 8, 2020, days after the General Qassem Suleimani was killed by a US drone strike in Baghdad. EPA
One year after Suleimani's killing, Iran refuses to learn its lessons
Instead of ending its aggressive approach to both the US and its neighbours in the Middle East, the regime has chosen to maintain its bellicose attitude
To judge from the wild claims that have been emanating from Tehran, as the country marks the first anniversary of the assassination of Quds Force commander Qassem Suleimani, the regime has learnt nothing from the demise of its leader.
From Hossein Salami, the head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, to the country's foreign minister, Mohamad Javad Zarif, key regime figures have been lining up to make provocative New Year statements that will serve only to deepen Tehran's isolation from most of the world.
Speaking at an inspection of Iranian troops stationed on occupied Abu Musa island, Mr Salami warned that Iran is ready to match any aggression by the US with decisive and firm blows, while Mr Zarif accused departing US President Donald Trump of threatening Iran after Washington deployed B-52 strategic bombers to the region ahead of the anniversary of Suleimani's killing at Baghdad airport last year.
Mr Trump authorised the American military build-up after US intelligence officials reported that there were indications that Iran was planning an attack on American interests and allies in Iraq to avenge the killing of the Quds Force head. In addition to sending B-52s to the Gulf, Washington has also deployed submarines equipped with cruise missiles.
Last month, the US accused Iran-backed militias of being responsible for a series of rocket attacks on the US Embassy in Baghdad, prompting Mr Trump to threaten Iran directly on Twitter. “We hear chatter of additional attacks against Americans in Iraq,” the President tweeted. “Some friendly health advice to Iran: if one American is killed, I will hold Iran responsible. Think it over.”
This prompted Mr Zarif to accuse the Trump administration of seeking to provoke a war with Tehran before Mr Trump’s presidency draws to a close later this month.
“Instead of fighting Covid in the US, [Donald Trump] & cohorts waste billions to fly B-52s & send armadas to OUR region,” the foreign minister tweeted. “Intelligence from Iraq indicates plot to FABRICATE pretext for war. Iran doesn’t seek war but will OPENLY & DIRECTLY defend its people, security & vital interests.”
Irrespective of whether there is any truth to the suggestions that Mr Trump is spoiling for a fight with Tehran in the dying days of his administration, there has certainly been a significant escalation of tensions in the region, not least because of Iran’s provocative action over its nuclear programme.
At a time when President-elect Joe Biden has indicated that he wants to revive the controversial nuclear deal with Iran, the regime has responded by announcing that it is now aiming to enrich uranium to 20 per cent, a blatant breach of its undertakings under the nuclear deal and a move which will significantly enhance Iran's ability to acquire weapons grade nuclear material.
The move represents a significant escalation in Tehran’s increasingly contemptuous attitude towards what remains of the nuclear deal, and makes the prospect of the incoming Biden administration being able to re-engage in a constructive dialogue with Iran increasingly unlikely.
On one level, it is easy to understand why key regime figures in Tehran are so keen to start the new year by seeking to intensify their hostile rhetoric towards the US and its allies.
So far as the hardliners are concerned, the Iranian leadership will look back at 2020 as a year to forget. It got off to a disastrous start with the assassination of Suleimani, a close ally of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was personally responsible for overseeing the expansion of Iran's malign influence throughout the Middle East.
In Syria, Suleimani was personally responsible for helping to keep the Assad regime in power, and played a critical role in persuading Russia to launch its military intervention in support of President Bashar Al Assad, a move that proved vital to keeping his regime in power.
In addition, Suleimani was responsible for creating the network of Iranian-sponsored militias in Iraq as part of Tehran’s attempts to exert its hegemony over its political establishment. Suleimani’s other achievements included providing arms and funding to Yemen’s Houthi rebels and helping Hezbollah to become the dominant force in Lebanese politics.
Suleimani’s killing, therefore, represented a significant setback for the hardline supporters of Mr Khamenei, as it deprived the regime of its most effective and accomplished operator in terms of expanding Iranian influence throughout the region.
Brigadier General Esmail Ghaani, head of Iran’s elite Quds Force, gives a speech during a ceremony in Tehran January 1, 2021 as part of commemorations of the killing of his predecessor, Qassem Suleimani in a US attack one year ago. West Asia News Agency via Reuters
An Iranian woman holds a picture of Qassem Suleimani during the commemoration ceremony in Tehran, Iran January 1, 2021. West Asia News Agency via Reuters
Mourners react during the commemoration Qassem Suleimani's assassination. West Asia News Agency via Reuters
A photo of Qassem Suleimani is placed on a chairs during the commemoration of his assassination. West Asia News Agency via Reuters
An image grab taken from a broadcast by Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting on October 1, 2019 shows Qassem Suleimani speaking during an interview with members of the Iranian supreme leader's bureau in Tehran. IRIB TV / AFP
Ebrahim Raisi, head of Iran's judiciary, gives a speech during the ceremony at Tehran University to mark the one year anniversary of the killing of Qassem Suleimani. West Asia News Agency via Reuters
Guests attend the commemoration ceremony for Qassem Suleimani in Tehran on January 1, 2021. AFP
Qassem Suleimani's daughter, Zeinab, attends the commemoration ceremony. West Asia News Agency via Reuters
Iranian judiciary chief Ebrahim Raisi speaks during the ceremony. AFP
Apart from Suleimani’s demise, the regime has also had to contend with the crippling impact of the Trump administration’s sanctions on the Iranian economy, with the rial losing more than half of its value, and both unemployment and inflation running well above 20 per cent.
With a new round of presidential elections due to take place in June, regime hardliners are keen to steer the political narrative in Iran away from their own shortcomings and concentrate instead on blaming the outside world for all their problems. At the same time, the regime is continuing to undertake a number of highly provocative acts that are guaranteed to increase tensions with Washington. For example, apart from increasing uranium enrichment to 20 per cent, it was recently revealed that Hezbollah has doubled the arsenal of advanced guided missiles it keeps trained on Israel.
Consequently, rather than learning any lessons from Suleimani’s demise and ending Tehran’s aggressive approach to both the US and its neighbours in the Middle East, the regime has decided to maintain its bellicose attitude, ensuring that Iran continues to present a threat to the outside world that should be reckoned with.
Con Coughlin is a defence and foreign affairs columnist for The National
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The currency conundrum
Russ Mould, investment director at online trading platform AJ Bell, says almost every major currency has challenges right now. “The US has a huge budget deficit, the euro faces political friction and poor growth, sterling is bogged down by Brexit, China’s renminbi is hit by debt fears while slowing Chinese growth is hurting commodity exporters like Australia and Canada.”
Most countries now actively want a weak currency to make their exports more competitive. “China seems happy to let the renminbi drift lower, the Swiss are still running quantitative easing at full tilt and central bankers everywhere are actively talking down their currencies or offering only limited support," says Mr Mould.
This is a race to the bottom, and everybody wants to be a winner.
Five healthy carbs and how to eat them
Brown rice: consume an amount that fits in the palm of your hand
Non-starchy vegetables, such as broccoli: consume raw or at low temperatures, and don’t reheat
Oatmeal: look out for pure whole oat grains or kernels, which are locally grown and packaged; avoid those that have travelled from afar
Fruit: a medium bowl a day and no more, and never fruit juices
Lentils and lentil pasta: soak these well and cook them at a low temperature; refrain from eating highly processed pasta variants
Courtesy Roma Megchiani, functional nutritionist at Dubai’s 77 Veggie Boutique
Who's who in Yemen conflict
Houthis: Iran-backed rebels who occupy Sanaa and run unrecognised government
Yemeni government: Exiled government in Aden led by eight-member Presidential Leadership Council
Southern Transitional Council: Faction in Yemeni government that seeks autonomy for the south
Habrish 'rebels': Tribal-backed forces feuding with STC over control of oil in government territory
Bobby Grudziecki, chief operating officer of Frank Porter, identifies the five most popular areas in Dubai for those looking to make the most out of their properties and the rates owners can secure:
• Dubai Marina
The Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence are popular locations, says Mr Grudziecki, due to their closeness to the beach, restaurants and hotels.
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh482 to Dh739
Two bedroom: Dh627 to Dh960
Three bedroom: Dh721 to Dh1,104
• Downtown
Within walking distance of the Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and the famous fountains, this location combines business and leisure. “Sure it’s for tourists,” says Mr Grudziecki. “Though Downtown [still caters to business people] because it’s close to Dubai International Financial Centre."
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh497 to Dh772
Two bedroom: Dh646 to Dh1,003
Three bedroom: Dh743 to Dh1,154
• City Walk
The rising star of the Dubai property market, this area is lined with pristine sidewalks, boutiques and cafes and close to the new entertainment venue Coca Cola Arena. “Downtown and Marina are pretty much the same prices,” Mr Grudziecki says, “but City Walk is higher.”
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh524 to Dh809
Two bedroom: Dh682 to Dh1,052
Three bedroom: Dh784 to Dh1,210
• Jumeirah Lake Towers
Dubai Marina’s little brother JLT resides on the other side of Sheikh Zayed road but is still close enough to beachside outlets and attractions. The big selling point for Airbnb renters, however, is that “it’s cheaper than Dubai Marina”, Mr Grudziecki says.
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh422 to Dh629
Two bedroom: Dh549 to Dh818
Three bedroom: Dh631 to Dh941
• Palm Jumeirah
Palm Jumeirah's proximity to luxury resorts is attractive, especially for big families, says Mr Grudziecki, as Airbnb renters can secure competitive rates on one of the world’s most famous tourist destinations.
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh503 to Dh770
Two bedroom: Dh654 to Dh1,002
Three bedroom: Dh752 to Dh1,152
Spending an excessive amount of time on the phone.
Neglecting personal, social, or academic responsibilities.
Losing interest in other activities or hobbies that were once enjoyed.
Having withdrawal symptoms like feeling anxious, restless, or upset when the technology is not available.
Experiencing sleep disturbances or changes in sleep patterns.
What are the guidelines?
Under 18 months: Avoid screen time altogether, except for video chatting with family.
Aged 18-24 months: If screens are introduced, it should be high-quality content watched with a caregiver to help the child understand what they are seeing.
Aged 2-5 years: Limit to one-hour per day of high-quality programming, with co-viewing whenever possible.
Aged 6-12 years: Set consistent limits on screen time to ensure it does not interfere with sleep, physical activity, or social interactions.
Teenagers: Encourage a balanced approach – screens should not replace sleep, exercise, or face-to-face socialisation.
Source: American Paediatric Association
Benefits of first-time home buyers' scheme
Priority access to new homes from participating developers
Discounts on sales price of off-plan units
Flexible payment plans from developers
Mortgages with better interest rates, faster approval times and reduced fees
DLD registration fee can be paid through banks or credit cards at zero interest rates
The Nobel Prize was created by wealthy Swedish chemist and entrepreneur Alfred Nobel.
In his will he dictated that the bulk of his estate should be used to fund "prizes to those who, during the preceding year, have conferred the greatest benefit to humankind".
Nobel is best known as the inventor of dynamite, but also wrote poetry and drama and could speak Russian, French, English and German by the age of 17. The five original prize categories reflect the interests closest to his heart.
Nobel died in 1896 but it took until 1901, following a legal battle over his will, before the first prizes were awarded.
All matches in Bulawayo Friday, Sept 26 – First ODI Sunday, Sept 28 – Second ODI Tuesday, Sept 30 – Third ODI Thursday, Oct 2 – Fourth ODI Sunday, Oct 5 – First T20I Monday, Oct 6 – Second T20I
The burning issue
The internal combustion engine is facing a watershed moment – major manufacturer Volvo is to stop producing petroleum-powered vehicles by 2021 and countries in Europe, including the UK, have vowed to ban their sale before 2040. The National takes a look at the story of one of the most successful technologies of the last 100 years and how it has impacted life in the UAE.
Direct flights from the UAE to the Nepalese capital, Kathmandu, are available with Air Arabia, (www.airarabia.com) Fly Dubai (www.flydubai.com) or Etihad (www.etihad.com) from Dh1,200 return including taxes. The trek described here started from Jomson, but there are many other start and end point variations depending on how you tailor your trek. To get to Jomson from Kathmandu you must first fly to the lake-side resort town of Pokhara with either Buddha Air (www.buddhaair.com) or Yeti Airlines (www.yetiairlines.com). Both charge around US$240 (Dh880) return. From Pokhara there are early morning flights to Jomson with Yeti Airlines or Simrik Airlines (www.simrikairlines.com) for around US$220 (Dh800) return.
The trek
Restricted area permits (US$500 per person) are required for trekking in the Upper Mustang area. The challenging Meso Kanto pass between Tilcho Lake and Jomson should not be attempted by those without a lot of mountain experience and a good support team. An excellent trekking company with good knowledge of Upper Mustang, the Annaurpuna Circuit and Tilcho Lake area and who can help organise a version of the trek described here is the Nepal-UK run Snow Cat Travel (www.snowcattravel.com). Prices vary widely depending on accommodation types and the level of assistance required.
Founder of the Muslim Brotherhood, Hassan al Banna, "accepted the political utility of violence"
Views of key Muslim Brotherhood ideologue, Sayyid Qutb, have “consistently been understood” as permitting “the use of extreme violence in the pursuit of the perfect Islamic society” and “never been institutionally disowned” by the movement.
Muslim Brotherhood at all levels has repeatedly defended Hamas attacks against Israel, including the use of suicide bombers and the killing of civilians.
Laying out the report in the House of Commons, David Cameron told MPs: "The main findings of the review support the conclusion that membership of, association with, or influence by the Muslim Brotherhood should be considered as a possible indicator of extremism."
Micro-retirement is not a recognised concept or employment status under Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Regulation of Labour Relations (as amended) (UAE Labour Law). As such, it reflects a voluntary work-life balance practice, rather than a recognised legal employment category, according to Dilini Loku, senior associate for law firm Gateley Middle East.
“Some companies may offer formal sabbatical policies or career break programmes; however, beyond such arrangements, there is no automatic right or statutory entitlement to extended breaks,” she explains.
“Any leave taken beyond statutory entitlements, such as annual leave, is typically regarded as unpaid leave in accordance with Article 33 of the UAE Labour Law. While employees may legally take unpaid leave, such requests are subject to the employer’s discretion and require approval.”
If an employee resigns to pursue micro-retirement, the employment contract is terminated, and the employer is under no legal obligation to rehire the employee in the future unless specific contractual agreements are in place (such as return-to-work arrangements), which are generally uncommon, Ms Loku adds.
