The global recognition of Palestine isn’t driven by Hamas’s 2023 attacks but by renewed support for a two-state solution led by Saudi Arabia and France. Over 155 countries now recognise Palestine, including Britain, France, Canada, and Australia. Despite Israeli resistance, the move marks growing acceptance that recognising Palestine also means recognising Israel — though extremists on both sides still threaten peace efforts.

Egypt’s credit rating is expected to be upgraded soon, supported by stronger economic indicators — flexible exchange rates, rising growth and investment, and lower debt insurance risks. Exports, tourism, and remittances all increased, boosting foreign currency stability. However, high external debt and inflation still pose challenges. Moody’s outlook for Egypt is positive, while S&P and Fitch remain stable.

Born in Sur, Oman, Suhail Bahwan rose from humble beginnings selling dried fish and dates to building one of the country’s largest conglomerates, the Suhail Bahwan Group, now worth $2.2 billion. Starting with a small shop in Muscat’s Muttrah Souq, he expanded into major industries after securing top brands like Seiko, Toshiba, and Toyota. Today, the group operates across 15 sectors and multiple countries, led by Suhail and his daughter Amal Bahwan, continuing a legacy of vision, resilience, and family leadership.

Egypt’s exports rose 19% in the first half of 2025 to $26B, driven by petroleum products, garments, and fresh fruits, though imports also jumped 14%, widening the trade deficit. The UAE, Italy, and Turkey led buyers, while 10 countries accounted for over half of Egypt’s exports.

Israel’s economy is reeling from the prolonged Gaza war and its brief conflict with Iran, with GDP shrinking 3.5% in Q2 2025 and growth forecasts cut to 2%. The wars have triggered labor shortages, record borrowing, tech sector setbacks, and rising investor fears, leaving the $580B economy its weakest in two decades.

Hussain Sajwani, Emirati billionaire and founder of DAMAC Properties and DICO Group, built one of the Middle East’s largest real estate empires, delivering over 36,000 homes and launching luxury projects with brands like Versace, Fendi, and Cavalli. Ranked among the richest Arabs with a fortune of about USD2.5b, he also owns Swiss jeweller De Grisogono and has major London investments. Beyond business, his foundation finances major Arab education and humanitarian initiatives.