Football regulator says blocking club owners over human rights 'not in our remit'

The backlash against comedians Louis CK, Dave Chappelle, and Jimmy Carr is intensifying due to their participation in a festival in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, a country notorious for severe human rights abuses. Critics are outraged, highlighting the stark contrast between the comedians' performances and the grim realities of life in Saudi Arabia, where punishments for crimes can be brutal. This situation raises important questions about the ethics of artists performing in countries with such records, and whether the financial gain is worth the moral implications.

Omid Djalili shares his experience performing at the Riyadh comedy festival, a decision he made after years of rejecting offers due to Saudi Arabia's human rights issues. He believes that art, particularly comedy, can drive progress and foster change in the region. Djalili acknowledges the criticism he faced but emphasizes the importance of supporting the evolving cultural landscape in Saudi Arabia, where signs of change are becoming more visible.

In Eswatini, a coalition of human rights activists and lawyers is raising alarms over the recent arrival of US deportees, questioning the legality and ethics of the government's agreement with Washington. This situation is compounded by the recent expiration of the AGOA agreement, which previously allowed certain African exporters tariff-free access to US markets, leaving many uncertain about the future. While some business leaders argue that this could enhance the effectiveness of the AfCFTA, the immediate concerns about human rights and constitutional integrity remain pressing and highlight the complexities of international agreements.

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.

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.