– Pakistan accounts for about 48% of people living in extreme poverty across the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan and Pakistan region, according to the World Bank’s October 2026 economic update. The measure uses the international extreme poverty line of

    Travel

    – Air Arabia will launch nonstop flights between Sharjah International Airport and Amman City Airport on November 15, 2026. The new route will operate four times each week and expand the carrier’s network between the United Arab Emirates and Jordan.

    Technology

    – The European Commission has proposed a new EU Critical Communication System to connect first responders across European borders. The plan would link national networks used by police, firefighters, emergency medical services and civil protection teams. It covers all EU

    Apple has introduced the iPhone Duo, its first foldable iPhone, with availability scheduled for October 23. The handset opens to a 7.6-inch inner display and uses a 5.4-inch outer screen when closed. Both displays share the same aspect ratio and

    The United States is adding battery factories while trying to cut its dependence on China. Domestic cell production has grown, but major supply gaps remain further upstream. Chinese companies still lead global production of several materials needed for lithium-ion batteries.

    Japan is expanding its response to investment fraud by using artificial intelligence to detect warning signs in consumer complaints. The Consumer Affairs Agency announced the initiative on September 1 as part of a wider anti-fraud package. The system will analyze