Russian Nikita Shulchenko of LCW UAE Cycle captures the individual overall title and the champion’s purse of P1 million after weathering a tenacious challenge by Frenchman Antoine Huby of 7-Eleven Cliqq Roadbike Philippines in a gripping finish to the 2026 Tour of Luzon

A Japanese-managed crude oil tanker successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz, amid disrupted oil supplies due to ongoing geopolitical tensions. Japan's Eneos, managing the vessel, reported the tanker carried substantial crude from Kuwait and the UAE. Japan is pursuing diplomatic avenues to ensure safe transportation and replace disrupted oil imports.

UAE denies Netanyahu secretly visited the country during Iran war

Xi Jinping says “the whole world is watching” as Donald Trump begins high-stakes talks in Beijing amid a fragile West Asia ceasefire. Meanwhile, Cisco cuts 4,000 jobs in its AI push, the rupee crashes to a record low, Israel and the UAE clash over claims of a secret Netanyahu meeting. In India, deeper questions arise over national examinations after NEET exam stands cancelled.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu allegedly made a secret visit to the United Arab Emirates amid the Israeli-US conflict with Iran. While Israel claims a historic diplomatic breakthrough, the UAE denies such a visit took place. This comes amid rising tensions involving Iran and the ongoing impact of the Abraham Accords.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi is embarking on a tour to the UAE, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway and Italy. Energy, trade and investment are at the top of the agenda as New Delhi hopes to deepen ties with old partners and new. Ishan Garg filed this report for CNA from New Delhi.