I have been criticised for being part of the Riyadh comedy festival. This is why I did it | Omid Djalili

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.

The AFC World Cup qualifier match between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia is generating excitement as fans eagerly await the live commentary and team news updates. This match is crucial for both teams as they vie for a spot in the 2026 World Cup, making it a significant event in the football calendar.

Michael Heseltine has taken a strong stance against Kemi Badenoch's recent policies during the Tory conference, criticizing her approach to human rights, asylum seekers, and climate change. His remarks, which also labeled Nigel Farage as a 'phoney', highlight a significant rift within the party and raise questions about the direction of Conservative policies. This matters because it reflects ongoing tensions in UK politics and could influence public perception and party unity.

Indonesia is set to face Saudi Arabia in an important AFC World Cup qualifier for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is being cohosted by Saudi Arabia and Qatar. This match is significant as it represents a crucial step for both teams in their quest to secure a spot in the prestigious tournament.

In the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, questions are being raised about the advantages given to Qatar and Saudi Arabia, who will host matches and enjoy more rest than their rivals. Oman coach Carlos Queiroz is among those voicing concerns over the AFC's decisions. As six Asian nations compete for two coveted World Cup spots, the dynamics of home advantage could significantly impact the outcomes, making this a crucial moment in the qualification process.

Eswatini has confirmed the arrival of ten more individuals deported by the US, marking the second group of third-country nationals sent to the kingdom under a controversial deal. This situation has raised significant concerns among NGOs and legal advocates, who argue that such deportations violate human rights. The implications of this deal are profound, as it highlights ongoing debates about immigration policies and the treatment of vulnerable populations.

Workers at Amazon warehouses in Saudi Arabia are expressing their frustration over unpaid financial redress promised by the company. These Asian migrant laborers, who incurred hefty recruiting fees, claim that Amazon has not fulfilled its commitment to compensate them for financial abuses they suffered. This situation highlights ongoing issues of labor rights and corporate accountability, raising important questions about the treatment of workers in global supply chains.

A parliamentary committee in Australia has raised serious concerns about the fast-tracking of deportations to Nauru, stating that the new regime may breach international human rights obligations. This finding is significant as it highlights the potential risks to vulnerable individuals and calls into question the government's approach to immigration and human rights. The committee's warning serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to international standards, especially in matters involving human dignity and safety.

Louis CK has recently defended his choice to perform at the Riyadh comedy festival, describing it as a 'good opportunity' despite acknowledging the mixed feelings surrounding the event due to Saudi Arabia's human rights record. While some fellow comedians have criticized the festival for potentially whitewashing the country's regime, CK believes that participating in such events can lead to positive outcomes. This situation highlights the ongoing debate about the role of artists in politically sensitive environments and raises questions about the balance between artistic expression and ethical considerations.

In a significant development, President Trump has announced that Israel and Hamas have reached an agreement on the initial steps of his proposed peace plan for Gaza. This breakthrough is crucial as it could pave the way for a more stable and peaceful region, highlighting the importance of diplomatic efforts in resolving long-standing conflicts.

The recent roundtable at the White House has sparked controversy as conservative influencers were given a platform to voice their grievances, particularly regarding alleged assaults by left-wing protesters. This event highlights the ongoing tensions between political factions in the U.S. and raises questions about the role of government in facilitating such discussions. It matters because it reflects the deepening divide in American politics and the impact of social media on public discourse.

The new series 'Celebrity Traitors' is making waves with a star-studded cast including Stephen Fry, Celia Imrie, and Alan Carr. This exciting show brings together celebrities to navigate secrets and challenges, promising viewers a blend of entertainment and intrigue. Its strong start indicates a potential hit, captivating audiences with the charm and wit of its participants.

In the latest updates from Australian politics, Ley has expressed her openness to a 'contest of ideas' amidst ongoing infighting within the Liberal party. Meanwhile, Ayres has defended a significant $600 million bailout for Glencore's copper smelter, citing challenges in the global market and unfair trade practices affecting the industry. These developments are crucial as they highlight the internal dynamics of political parties and the government's response to economic pressures, which could impact future policies and public sentiment.

President Donald Trump announced that a ceasefire deal for Gaza is 'very close' and hinted at a possible visit to Egypt this weekend. This development comes as US envoys engage in intensified negotiations in Sharm el-Sheikh to finalize a truce and a plan for hostage release. The potential for peace in the region is significant, as it could lead to a reduction in violence and improve humanitarian conditions for those affected.

In a significant development, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio was photographed handing President Trump a note indicating that a ceasefire deal in Gaza is 'very close.' This moment highlights the ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict, which has seen devastating impacts on civilians. The potential for a ceasefire is crucial not only for the immediate relief of those affected but also for the broader stability in the region, making this news particularly important.